Local charities Blood Bikes and DG Lift have each received a £500 donation from international company Serco as part of their annual community benefits commitment to the region.
Since taking up the contract as facilities management provider for DGRI, the Serco team based there have become aware of Blood Bikes volunteers’ dedication and commitment to a much needed and highly valued service. They were delighted to be able to support the charity, its volunteers and ultimately the patients who benefit from their work.
After hearing about DG Lift through local publicity the Serco team, impressed by their tireless effort and creativity in supporting families during the Covid-19 pandemic, were keen to assist in some way to help at a time when the service they provide has been needed more than ever.
Both charities were delighted to receive the cash boost, especially as it has not been possible to carry out the kind of fundraising activities they usually would, due to restrictions at local and national level resulting from the pandemic.
Garry McKean, Site Lead for Serco said:
“As the facilities management provider at Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary Serco is committed to supporting the hospital and the local community. We are pleased to make these donations to support DG Blood Bikes and DG Lift, charities who both do important work providing services that have been crucial in supporting local people in the last year and will continue to do so going forward.”
Bob Morrison, Fundraiser Lead for DG Blood Bikes said: ‘Like every other charity we have had a difficult year raising funds because of Covid-19. We are extremely grateful to Serco for supporting us at this time. Every donation helps keep DG Blood Bikes on the road to help our local NHS and their patients as and when needed. None of our members receive any payment for the jobs they do. Everyone volunteers their time freely so you can be sure that every penny is used to support those in need.’
Angela Gilmour, Director at DG Lift said: “We are so grateful to Serco for their donation. During the pandemic we have still been trying to reach families in our community, with the donation we have been able to put this money towards the online activities we have been providing and enabling people to take part with no cost to themselves. We are also able to continue supporting local business and people starting up their own initiatives.”
