THERAPY and counselling, free Wi-Fi and garden sessions are just some of the ways in which Salisbury District Hospital’s charity is helping the community during the Covid-19 crisis.

The Stars Appeal has been busy over the past month funding projects to benefit both patients and staff at the hospital, and is constantly on the lookout for ways in which it can further its support as the pandemic develops.

So far the charity has helped the hospital provide a free Wi-fi service, so isolated patients can stay connected with friends and family, and staff can take part in therapy and counselling, specialist training and moral boosting sessions.

Additionally hospital chaplains are onsite to give comfort and reassurance, and the hospital gardens are accessible for time outdoors.

The Stars Appeal described the outbreak as “the greatest challenge our hospital has ever faced”, and intensive care consultant and Stars Appeal ambassador Doctor Duncan Murray said: “The support offered by Stars Appeal funded projects at this incredibly challenging time is more valuable than ever to both our hospital staff and patients.”

The charity has estimated it will need around £150,000 to continue providing facilities and further projects, so is appealing to the public to donate or set up fundraising pages.

Penny Brown, chairman of the Stars Appeal Fundraising Committee said: “We are fully committed to continuing to support the hardworking staff and patients in our hospital during its greatest challenge ever.

“With so many of our fundraising activities no longer able to go ahead, people’s support has never been more important and I thank everyone who is doing what they can to help during this difficult time for us all.”

Dr Murray added: “Please donate to enable the charity to continue to help us all through this crisis. Your support is vital to us.”

Several physical gifts, in particular food, have already been offered to the hospital team, but following the Government’s health and safety guidance and the hospital’s infection control restrictions, the public has been asked to no longer visit the site with donations.

If a business is able to donate non-perishable supplies in bulk, email info@starsappeal.org so contributions, sourcing and transport can be discussed with the team.

For more information and to donate visit starsappeal.org/coronavirus/