RHYL volunteers have stepped in to make hospital stays more comfortable for patients.

Soroptimist International Rhyl & District (SIRD) have been, collecting and filling bags with essential toiletries for people who are unexpectedly admitted to hospital at very short notice.

The project began after the mother of a SIRD member was admitted to hospital unexpectedly, whilst on holiday on the East Coast, and realised that there was nothing available for ward patients.

The volunteers then decided to make up their own 'patient bags' filled with a supply of essential toiletries and personal care items, such as toothbrush and toothpaste, soap, flannel, comb and a small packet of tissues.

The mother of the SIRD member welcomed the project: "Hearing about the SIRD putting together bags of essential items is of such importance for the patients and their dignity, I only wish I had been given one when I was taken into hospital whist on holiday."

It is hoped these bags will go some way to help make their stay more comfortable, until such time as relatives or friends are able to bring in toiletries for them.

Soroptimists Esther Roberts and Lesley Roberts then presented the patient bags to staff at the acute medical unit at Glan Clwyd Hospital

Ms Karen Paton, ward manager, responded: “We are so appreciative to receive this very kind donation from SIRD, which makes a lot difference for the patients admitted unexpectedly with their relatives.”

Soroptimist International is a worldwide organisation for women with the aim of improving the lives of women and girls in the area, as well as on a national and international level.

The group meets

This is an excellent initiative which has been well supported and well received - there is definitely a continuing need at Glan Clwyd Hospital for SIRD's 'patient bags'.

For more information on SIRD meetings and projects, visit sigbi.org.