PATIENTS inside a Kendal hospital have a new way to contact friends and family thanks to a project from Bay Trust Radio.

Bay Trust Radio have set up the donated iPads to allow patients on Ward 7 and Ward 9 to listen to their radio service, get access the latest news and information and keep in touch with friends and family. The tablets play a huge role at this difficult time when ward visiting is suspended due to COVID-19.

The iPads include video chat apps along with a Patients’ Portal designed by the charity, allowing patients to access local information, health and wellbeing advice and a way to listen and contact the radio team.

John Williamson, Station Manager, said: “We know that it can be difficult for anyone to be in hospital, especially at this time, so we are really pleased to be able to make a difference to patients.”

“At a time when visiting isn’t possible for patients inside hospital, we wanted to find a way to make sure patients could access something to brighten their day. The two wards we have provided iPads with do not have entertainment systems, so the tablets enable patients to hear Bay Trust Radio as well as providing a window to the outside world.”

The charity is hoping to expand the project to other wards and is welcoming any donations of unused iPads from local businesses or people.

If you would like to donate a tablet, please get in touch by emailing info@baytrustradio.org.uk