Leigh does her bit for her local hospital

Leigh McNeill and her Shared Lives support worker Linda are spending their time together providing information to the public to help prevent the spread of healthcare associated infections (HAI).

Leigh is a member of Motherwell volunteers at Wishaw General and Monklands Hospitals where she maintains hospital information points making sure they are stocked with the latest information on a number of issues including HAI information.

Leigh did her bit during Infection control and prevention week which fell on 20-26 October by making sure the stands were well stocked with HAI information.

The week has become a regular feature in the healthcare calendar and is used to remind everyone about the importance of taking the necessary steps to prevent the spread of infection.

Leigh, who has learning difficulties, is supported by her support worker Linda Magee from Coatbridge.

Linda Magee said: “Leigh really enjoys her job and is it’s always rewarding when you know that your efforts are helping to make a difference.”

Lisa Roy, primary care infection control nurse said: “More people are increasingly aware of the importance of infection control and hand hygiene issues, but there is no room for complacency.

“That’s why the work of Leigh is very important as it helps us to remind everyone of their responsibilities and to practice good hand hygiene at all times.”

Rick Edwards, patient information manager, said: “Leigh has been volunteering with us for almost five years and her help has been invaluable in making sure we provide this key information to educate and inform the public.

“We are truly grateful to Leigh and Linda for their on-going support.”