Hartlepool social club helps Covid patients keep in contact with loved ones by giving iPads to hospital

Members of the South Durhams (Steelworks) Social Club presented 14 iPads to the staff at the University Hospital of North Tees just before Christmas for the Covid ward so patients can stay in contact with friends and family, particularly over Christmas.

The new tablets were bought after club members raised thousands of pounds for charity from a large sponsored bike ride around the town last summer.

Each rider was tasked with getting at least £100 in sponsorship.

Hospital bosses said the iPads will go a big way to helping support patients while in their care. Visiting has been suspended following the announcement of the new lockdown due to last until mid-February.

One of the ride organisers Dwane Douglas said: “We raised the money by doing a 20 mile bike ride around Hartlepool in August.

"Thirty-five people took part and with sponsor forms we raised £7,000 with half going to Macmillan Cancer and the other for the NHS.”

The day on the August Bank Holiday weekend also featured a family fun day at the club with lots of activities for families during the day and live music entertainment for the adults on the night.

Dwane added: "I’d like to thank everyone who took part especially Brian Minton and Robbie Patison for their hard work, Dig the Old Breed and Dan Donnelly for providing the entertainment on the day.”

He also thanked Angie and Richie at Curry’s for their help, and Allison Connelly from North Tees hospital’s Patient Experience Team.

Stephen Green, associate director of risk and governance at North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Thank you to the Steelworks working men’s club for such a generous donation.

“They are one of many examples of the incredible support we have had from our community over the last few months.

“These tablets will go a significant way in helping support patients while they are in our care in hospital.”

Dwane and Brian also gave nurses a large supply of tea, coffee and sugar to help keep them going during this time when the NHS is under increased pressure because of the rise in Covid and winter demands.

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