Making the difference to the local COVID-19 Response

the difference, the official charity of NHS Borders, is helping to make the difference to health care staff and patients during the COVID-19 pandemic.

the difference is witnessing the unprecedented challenge that is facing the NHS Borders and how that is being met head on thanks to each and every member of staff who directly or indirectly are contributing to the coronavirus response effort.

Karen Wilson, Fundraising Manager for the difference, explains, "Staff are adapting to new ways of working, working in different environments or in different roles. Patients are finding themselves without the practical and emotional support provided by their visitors so we are having to react to address the needs and wants that are arising from this unique set of circumstances. The support from the local community has already been fantastic but we want to be prepared to help wherever it is needed so we have decided to establish a specific fund to support this work."

The COVID-19 Response Fund is helping with both the physical and mental wellbeing of staff by providing re-fuelling stations across NHS Borders’ sites to ensure our busy staff can get a drink and a snack quickly when they need it. Wellbeing rooms are also being created on wards so that staff can take a moment and regroup away from the ward environment when they need to.

The COVID-19 Response Fund will also support patients by ensuring they have what they need, from toiletries and refreshments, to ensuring they can communicate with loved ones wherever possible by providing devices to video call relatives.

For anyone wishing to make a donation or to view our Amazon wishlist please visit our website www.thedifference.org.uk or contact the fundraising team at thedifference@borders.scot.nhs.uk or call 01896 825520