A north-east cancer charity has taken steps to ensure support and provisions are delivered to the region’s most vulnerable people.
With the work of its in-house health team at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary temporarily suspended on the advice of NHS Grampian, Friends of Anchor has committed itself to supporting patients in any other ways it can.
The charity will now be distributing wellbeing provisions via a postal service so those most in need can access the support they need.
It is hoped that step will take a little pressure off NHS Grampian staff as the coronavirus pandemic pushes the national health service to capacity.
Fundraising and development director, Sarah-Jane Hogg, said: “We will continue to support the hospital in any way we can.
“Our hands-on staff have had to draw back for safety reasons but that won’t stop us helping people.
“The postal service will provide wellbeing provisions directly to patients and alleviate pressure on the hospital.”
There are more than 450 new breast cancer patients each year in the NHS Grampian area and the growing health crisis threatens to take resources away from vital care services.
Friends of Anchor have pledged to post out all verified orders within 48 hours of a request being made to wellbeing@friendsofanchor.org.
A variety of provisions are available, including sea bands and ginger sweets to help alleviate nausea, soothing conditioner for a dry scalp and digital thermometers for keeping a close eye on temperatures.
More specialised items, however, such as moisturising Udderly smooth cream and head coverings for those facing hair loss, can only be obtained from ARI.