FRESH from collecting funds for Rugby’s hospital charity, Rugby’s MP has praised the group’s work in Parliament.
Mark Pawsey joined the Friends of the Hospital of St Cross for a collection at Sainsbury’s in Dunchurch Road.
He then spoke in the House of Commons to praise the work of volunteers such as the Friends who support their local hospitals and health service.
Andrea Leadsom, the Leader of the House of Commons, also praised the “superb work of the Friends of St Cross and all volunteers as we celebrate the 70th birthday of the NHS.”
The Friends of the Hospital of St Cross formed in 1955, and supports the hospital by running a range of voluntary services and donating equipment to improve patients’ experiences.
The charity’s fund-raising has enabled services such as the Flexible Outpatient Cystoscopy Urogynaecology Service, which allows patients to be treated in Rugby during an outpatient procedure, rather than Coventry.
The hospital’s £400,000 Friends Blood Taking Unit opened in 2015 with the help of a £140,000 donation from the Friends.
Mr Pawsey said: “I know just how important local health services are for residents. Many of us will know about the work the Friends of the Hospital of St Cross for our local hospital, but without the support of residents they would not be able to make such a difference.
“I was once again amazed by the generosity of the people of Rugby when I joined the Friends for their fundraising.
“The Friends have managed to raise money to help improve a number of services at our local hospital, including providing an Oxford Pillow which helps patients who otherwise would not be able to lie flat for surgery be treated at St Cross.
“The Friends also do amazing work helping patients during their treatment, providing support at what is often a very difficult time and running all manner of non-medical services such as the Friends Tea Bar.
“I was very pleased that the Leader of the House recognised the valuable contribution of the Friends of St Cross and other charities like them.
“There is still a crucial role for volunteers in supporting the health service and I hope to see the Friends of St Cross continue for many years to come.”
