We want to assure our community that we are doing everything we can to support our patients and staff at this time.
We have received thoughtful donations of iPads and tablets through our hospital charity, ELHT&Me. The iPads are enabling our patients to keep in touch with their family and friends virtually.
We are currently working hard to ensure all of our staff are able to easily use the devices. This is being facilitated by our Spiritual Care Centre, who are providing training on how to use the video communications app, Zoom, to help and support our patients. This means staff can help our patients call a loved one, or multiple friends and family all at the same time, to keep in touch.
One of the Trust's chaplains, David Anderson, has been providing the training to staff, and said, “One of the most important things to remind families is the truth, that we care about their loved ones. Right now people need to be aware of our professionalism, but they also need to be aware of our humanity.”
“There are lots of things in the media about people dying alone of COVID19. We need to ensure the families that their loved ones aren’t alone. They are not alone because we are here, giving our all.
“Lots of wards have iPads now that can be used for virtual visits via Zoom. It can mean a lot to families to see their loved one, one last time.”