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Tribute paid to NHS staff
06/07/2007
The resilience and professionalism of NHS staff was highlighted today by Nicola Sturgeon following a visit to the Royal Alexandra Hospital (RAH) in Paisley.
The Cabinet Secretary for Health and Wellbeing paid particular tribute to staff at the RAH who have worked so hard over the past week to keep vital services running smoothly in the wake of Saturday's incident at Glasgow Airport.
She also praised the courage and dedication of the first Scottish Ambulance Service staff at the scene, who had to carry out their work in difficult and dangerous circumstances.
Ms Sturgeon has now written to all NHS Scotland staff to highlight the important role that health professionals from overseas make to improving the health and wellbeing of everyone using NHS services in Scotland.
After her visit to the RAH, Ms Sturgeon said:
"I wanted to express my sincere thanks to staff at the RAH for the way that they have continued to care for patients and provide vital lifeline services over the last week, and to recognise the quick, efficient and brave response of ambulance service staff to the airport incident
"NHS staff work under constant pressure, but the serious events of last weekend have put an additional pressure on staff which they have dealt with tremendously. I have been very impressed by the determination and commitment they have shown in continuing to deliver services, and I am delighted to pay tribute the staff personally this morning."
In her letter to all NHS Scotland staff, Ms Sturgeon said:
"The recent incident at Glasgow Airport and the subsequent speculation that a number of those involved were NHS employees has shocked us all.
"I would particularly like to pay tribute to those of you who worked so hard in the aftermath of last week's incidents, not just in dealing with the Airport incident itself but in the sterling support provided to get people home or provide shelter on Saturday night.
"Healthcare is a global profession and Scotland has a proud record in attracting skilled staff from around the world. Health professionals from overseas make a significant contribution by using their skills and experience to help improve the health and wellbeing of everyone using the NHS in Scotland. We should not lose sight of that.
"As you will be aware, the NHS and police are working in close collaboration to support the investigation of the incidents. Vigilance remains essential for all of us - in the workplace as well as in public. Please continue to follow police advice and report anything suspicious.
"That said, we need to ensure that staff and patients are made to feel that they are in a safe and secure environment. I would urge you to continue to make sure that no individual or group is victimised or left to feel vulnerable and unsupported and that any inappropriate or discriminatory behaviours are challenged. All members of staff have a right to be treated fairly."