THE organisation which runs Hexham Hospital has become one of 24 hospital trusts accredited by the Veterans Covenant Hospital Alliance (VCHA) to lead the way in improving NHS care for veterans and members of the Armed Forces.
Northumbria Healthcare provides staff training on veterans’ needs, makes servicemen and women aware of appropriate charities or services, and ensures members of the armed forces are never disadvantaged when compared to other patients.
Chief executive Jim Mackey said: “We are delighted to be accredited as one of the first veteran aware trusts in the country. Every November we rightly remember the sacrifices of those who serve our country in the Armed Forces.
“This remembrance must also translate into tangible action to aid those who, as a result of their service, return home with injuries both seen and unseen.”
The VCHA was inspired by Captain Noel Godfrey Chavasse VC, a doctor who gave his life rescuing men on the battlefields of the First World War.
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