The Friends of Lydney Hospital, long established in supporting our community hospital, have now widened their scope following the closure of the hospital. The charity has been renamed Friends of Lydney Hospital & Health to reflect its new mission: to support projects that promote health and wellbeing in Lydney and the wider South Forest community. As part of this commitment, the Friends have recently:
- Donated £60,000 to Lydney Dial-a-Ride towards a new accessible minibus. This will play a vital role in helping residents reach medical appointments and other essential services.
- Provided funding for Listening Post, a mental health charity offering one-to-one counselling in Lydney. Sessions are delivered from Althorpe Cottage, kindly made available by Watts of Lydney Group.
Mary Thurston, Chair of Friends of Lydney Hospital & Health, said:
“We are delighted to continue serving our community in this new way. We are particularly pleased to work with Lydney Dial-a-Ride, who are providing essential services to so many local people. Together with initiatives like Listening Post, we can ensure that vital support remains accessible for those who need it most.
Martin Bowring, Chairman of Trustees at Lydney Dial-a-Ride, said:
“This generous donation from the Friends will make a real difference. The new minibus will help ensure that vulnerable and less mobile members of our community can access healthcare, shopping, and social opportunities – reducing isolation and improving quality of life.”
Louise Currie, Manager of Lydney Dial-a-Ride, added:
“We are proud to provide an essential service for local people, and the support of the Friends means we can continue to meet growing demand. We are very grateful for their partnership.”
The Friends of Lydney Hospital & Health remain committed to investing their funds where they will make the greatest difference to local health and wellbeing, carrying forward the spirit of care that has guided the charity for many years.
