Scotland donates over 500 assistive tech items to Ukraine, including height-adjustable beds – AT Today – Assistive Technology

The Scottish Government has announced that medical equipment and supplies, including electric height-adjustable beds, will be sent from Scotland to Ukraine.

The shipment of over 500 items includes oxygen concentrators, electric height-adjustable beds with replacement batteries and mattresses, oxygen concentrators, and ICU ventilators identified by NHS Scotland as surplus to operational requirements.

This donation comprises of equipment obtained as part of Scottish Government’s response to the COVID pandemic which are no longer required and/or are considered unsuitable for use in health boards in Scotland. The donation will not impact on services to patients using the healthcare services in Scotland.

It brings the total value of medical supplies donated from Scotland to Ukraine to £3.8 million.

Identified equipment and supplies are being held centrally by NHS Scotland and prepared for transportation, which will take place in the coming weeks.

First Minister John Swinney confirmed the latest donation during a meeting with the Ukrainian Ambassador to the UK General Valerii Zaluzhnyi in London. It follows a request from the Ukrainian Consulate in Edinburgh in May 2024 to contribute medical equipment on a humanitarian basis.

The First Minister said: “The people of Ukraine are suffering as a consequence of the illegal invasion of their country, and it is vital we do all we can to support them.

“These supplies, identified by NHS Scotland as being surplus to requirements, will provide direct humanitarian support to Ukraine at a critical time.

“Scotland stands in solidarity with Ukraine and offers unqualified support for its independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity.”

Ambassador of Ukraine to the United Kingdom General Valerii Zaluzhnyi commented: “The act of generosity and solidarity demonstrated by NHS Scotland in extending a helping hand to Ukraine in its time of need exemplifies the true spirit of humanity and compassion.

“It serves as a powerful reminder that, in the face of adversity, solidarity and cooperation can transcend borders and make a meaningful impact on the lives of those in war.

“The Ukrainian people are deeply grateful for the support and assistance provided by NHS Scotland, knowing that these supplies will make a difference between life and death for many.

“The bonds of friendship and solidarity forged through this act of kindness will not be forgotten and will serve as a beacon of hope for a brighter future beyond the shadows of Russia’s war against Ukraine.”

As funding allocations for NHS boards were announced, a report from Healthcare Improvement Scotland has revealed that the number of patients using Hospital at Home in Scotland rose by almost a quarter in 2023.