Oswestry pharmacist launches fundraising drive for Red Cross at Home
Staff at an Oswestry pharmacy have launched a charity fundraising drive to help people in their own home after a stay in hospital.
John Gentle and his team at Pharmacy @ Caxton will be holding a series of fundraising events to raise money for the British Red Cross Care in the Home service.
The Red Cross helps thousands of people after a short stay in hospital and aims to prevent unnecessary hospital stays by providing extra support and care within their own homes.
Mr Gentle, who runs the pharmacy next to The Caxton Surgery off Oswald Road and holds the Charter Award for his service and contribution to pharmacy after serving for 24 years, said it was a vital service which many of his customers could benefit from.
“Volunteers give up their time to support people when they return home from a short stay in hospital which helps them to settle back into a normal routine.
“That person can then regain their confidence and independence but without that volunteer they may not have otherwise have been able to do so,” Mr Gentle said.
“We have seen the work of British Red Cross volunteers here at the pharmacy as they come and collect prescriptions so hopefully our fundraising efforts will ensure that service is supported financially to fund expenses such as travel.”
The leading pharmacist said his team would be organising a programme of fundraising throughout 2013.
The British Red Cross volunteers also offer companionship and assistance with shopping.
The team at the Pharmacy @ Caxton also offer a home delivery service for pensioners or vulnerable people who cannot collect them.
To order your prescriptions, a collection from another surgery or to request a delivery call John Gentle and his team on (01691) 653033. For more information on the British Red Cross visit www.redcross.org.uk.
