Al-khair Foundation, a well-known international charity that assists with many local and national issues, including loneliness and mental health, have donated £500 to local hospital charity ELHT&Me as part of a mental health initiative for patients at East Lancashire Hospitals Trust (ELHT). The project, which is led by hospital chaplain David Anderson, aims to improve support for patients within the hospital who may be suffering from a mental health issue. David wanted to ensure access to the Samaritans helpline, that provides a 24/7 listening service by trained staff, for people who are in crisis. Research shows that this service has a positive impact on people feeling suicidal. David said: “This project will give free access to all our patients at Royal Blackburn Teaching Hospital via the bedside phones to this important helpline where people can receive support and understanding in addition to existing care offered by the NHS.”
Imran Musa regional manager at the Foundation said: “We are delighted to assist with this innovative project initiated by the hospital’s Chaplaincy department. I hope that this service will make a big difference to the patients who may need this support whilst they are in the hospital.”
Hospital Imam, Fazal Hassan, Muslim Chaplain and Religious Advisor who helped access the funds says: “The chaplaincy Department is extremely grateful to Al-Khair Foundation for their support. This is yet another example of how local charities have stepped up to support a worthwhile local cause.
“The £500 paid for the software changes necessary for this to be implemented. Hospedia, who run the beside phones system, have also very kindly agreed to fund the cost of the calls, although members of the public can contact the Samaritans free on their personal phones anytime on 116 123.”