THE public is being asked to get behind an appeal to support Dorset County Hospital which is continuing to suffer 'immense pressure'.

Dorset County Hospital Charity's Greatest Need Appeal aims to raise funds for projects across the whole of the hospital, providing support for patients and staff during the ongoing Covid pandemic.

The appeal will direct funding towards wards and key clinical units and for the enhancement of the hospital environment and treatment facilities.

Furthermore, the appeal will put extra funds towards projects such as providing state-of-the-art equipment or funding wellbeing initiatives for NHS staff.

It will also support projects which directly improve the hospital environment, creating welcoming and accessible spaces where patients and their relatives, and our staff, can rest, reflect, and recover.

Simon Pearson, Head of Charity and Social Value at Dorset County Hospital said: "As DCH continues to operate under immense pressures from the ongoing Covid pandemic, our patients and staff urgently need that extra support that only the Charity can provide to make care and caring that little bit more special for everyone.

"Dorset County Hospital is doing everything it can to rebuild its services but there are many challenges ahead.

"Our staff are working hard to overcome the impact of the pandemic on our services and with your help our Charity will continue to be there to give Dorset County Hospital as much support as possible."

Mr Pearson added: "This appeal will target extra help wherever the need is greatest.

"This might be by providing state-of-the-art equipment, funding wellbeing initiatives for our dedicated NHS staff or improving the hospital environment for the benefit of everyone who uses it."

Nicky Lucey, Chief Nursing Officer at Dorset County Hospital said: "With the help of our amazing donors and the local community this appeal will help DCH Charity make a real difference to our patients. Thank you for being there for us when we need you – we will continue to be here for you and your loved ones."

To make a donation to the Greatest Need Appeal visit www.justgiving.com/campaign/DCHGreatestNeedAppeal.