High praise for Respiratory Care

Team Leader, Mrs Christine Gamble, told the November meeting of the Breathe Easy Causeway that the results of a recent survey had highlighted the excellent and effective work of the team, which caters primarily for patient referrals from hospital and local doctors.

She said: “Our workload has trebled since the Team was established just over five years ago and we have catered for over 3,000 patients.

“Our aim is to promote the best possible care and advice at home for those battling severe lung disease”

She added: “Our success has been due to dedicated teamwork and total commitment by all staff.”

The meeting also heard about the challenge of change being tackled effectively by the National Trust Guest Speaker was Toby Edwards, Site Manager for Downhill Demesne, Hezlett House, Castlerock, and Portstewart Strand.

He said: “For too long the National Trust had a public image of catering for the needs of a select few. Now we are widening our horizons and organizing a myriad of events to attract people to our parks and places of historical interest.

“Nowhere is this more evident than at Downhill Demesne, Hezlett House and Portstewart. And we are delighted with the response and initiatives of local communities, schools and artistic groups.

Highlighting the cost of restoration and maintenance - almost £200,000 alone for recent work at Downhill and Hezlett House, Mr Edwards detailed the success of recent local initiatives such as the summer music festivals and special events at Halloween, Easter and Christmas, as well as the recently established allotment plots at Hezlett House.

“The National Trust is well prepared to face the challenge of fast-changing times. With this in mind we are grateful for the whole – hearted support of the local communities.”

The speakers were thanked by Group Chairperson Mrs Marie Hegarty.

Arrangements are being made to highlight World COPD on Wednesday, November 14.