Glasgow’s Hospital Broadcasting Service (HBS), which provides entertainment to patients across NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) hospitals, has triumphed yet again at the National Hospital Radio Awards.
Fighting off tough competition, two presenters were recognised for their contributions, with Robert Craw taking Silver for the Specialist Music Programme award and Emily Page taking home the Silver for Best Newcomer.
The volunteer-run service, which recently celebrated its 50th year on the airwaves in Glasgow, has long been a fixture of the patient experience within NHSGGC. HBS volunteers can often be seen on the wards taking song requests and providing patients with a welcome distraction from hospital life.
It’s not the first time the station has been recognised by the Hospital Broadcasting Association, which oversees around 170 stations the length and breadth of the UK. Last year, the team took home no less than three prizes, despite having to manage the challenge of operating during COVID-19 restrictions which made it difficult for the team to access the wards to take requests.
Now, getting in touch with the station has never been easier and patients can request songs and messages on social media, through the website, or on any of the tablet devices available on every ward across NHSGGC.
Commenting, NHSGGC Chairman, Professor John Brown CBE, said: “Hospital Broadcasting Service makes a significant and vital contribution to NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde’s care provision. It is testament to the commitment and passion of the individuals involved that the station has run for so long, and has positively benefitted thousands of patients over the last 50 years. HBS embodies what underpins our own ethos, which is to provide high-quality patient-centred care to all patients.
“The service undoubtedly provides a welcome distraction to patients who might otherwise be feeling anxious or be going through a difficult period in their lives and I’d like to congratulate all of the volunteers involved in delivering HBS in our hospitals.”
Niall Anderson, Chairman of Hospital Broadcasting Service, said: “The team at HBS puts in a huge effort day-in, day-out to provide patients with a seven-day service and I’m thrilled to see them recognised at the prestigious national awards. We look forward to continuing working across the hospitals, particularly now a level of normality has returned which means we’re able to get back onto the wards and provide that extra personal experience for patients.”
