Stirling politicians have praised the launch of a new helpline for health and social care staff.
Alyn Smith MP and Bruce Crawford MSP have both welcomed the launch of a 24/7 mental health support service for workers in the health and social care sector.
The new support line was launched on 20 July.
The new wellbeing hotline will allow trained practitioners to connect with in-need service users to provide a compassionate listening service and psychological first aid where necessary.
Additionally, users can be directed to resources available through the National Wellbeing Hub, a specialist service for health and social care worker support, or they can be directed to local assistance and services.
Stirling MSP Bruce Crawford said: “The wellbeing of our health and social care workers remains crucial to the health of us all. The welcome addition of this 24/7 telephone hotline will play an important role in ongoing support for staff amidst one of the worst healthcare disasters of this century.
“I praise the dedication, hard work and selflessness of these workers, who day in and day out have put themselves on the frontlines in beating back this dreadful disease. I’m sure I speak for us all in the Stirling community when I say they have our sincere appreciation and gratitude for all they’ve done, and continue to do.”
Stirling MP Alyn Smith said: “The NHS reflects our living national values of cooperation, solidarity and caring for our community. The Scottish Government does these values justice by ensuring our health and social care workers have the support they need to get through this pandemic.
“Whilst the numbers of new infections and deaths are lowering, and in some circumstances have halted all together, we must remain resolute. We must stick to the health guidance, and never forget the sacrifice and hard-work of the last few months, especially from our health and social care workers, that has made the easing of lockdown possible.”
With around 8000 members of staff in NHS Forth Valley alone, the new helpline could provide vital support for some of Stirling’s frontline personnel amidst the unfolding COVID-19 pandemic.
Image credit: Stirling SNP
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