Donation of video conferencing devices to UK care homes helps more loved ones connect
Hugh James has been donating video conferencing units to hospitals and care homes across the UK, to help make it easier for residents to connect with their loved ones during the coronavirus pandemic and lockdown.
Video conferencing with families and friends has become a way of life for many during COVID-19, but for patients in hospital long-term and for those living in nursing homes and assisted living facilities, the simple act of seeing loved ones is often a challenge. Facilities have limited, if any, equipment – so initiating or receiving video calls requires significant advanced planning.
We wanted to do something to help. And, as part of this year’s Injury Board Day of Action, set out to deliver devices to some care homes and rehabilitation centres in Cardiff and Oswestry. These were Romilly Nursing Home in Pontcanna; Danygraig care home in Porthcawl; Oakhouse Care Home in Canton; and the Midland Centre for Spinal Injuries in Oswestry.
Earlier this week, Partner Katherine Allen hand delivered one of the Amazon Echo Show units to the Midland Centre for Spinal Injuries in Oswestry, whilst observing social distancing.
Responding to the donation, Julie Smith, Therapy Team Lead said today:
“This is such a useful gift that will make a massive difference to people during what is a very lonely and difficult time. I’m very grateful to Hugh James for donating the device and I know it will be put to good use by many people.”
Chris Douglas, activities coordinator at Danygraig House, said:
I would just like to say a big thank you for the donation of the Amazon Device. It will used in many ways. We will able to use it as a means of contact between relatives and residents during these difficult times, allowing them to see and hear each other. We can also stream music so residents can listen to their favourite songs and in turn stimulate memories for them. It will be used by all the different units at the home and I am sure it will become a resourceful item for all who use it.
Commenting on the initiative, Hugh James Partner and Personal Injury and Travel Lawyer, Katherine Allen said today:
“We know how critical it is for adults who live under the greatest restrictions to stay connected with loved ones. That’s why we wanted to do something tangible to help. Virtual visitation plays an important role in both the health and wellbeing of care home and hospital residents and their families. It will never replace face to face interaction, but video conferencing can provide much needed connection for families who can’t be together right now.”
