Other News In Brief

Public Urged To Donate Blood

Sinn Féin MLA Catherine Seeley is urging people to become blood donors.

Stocks of blood, particularly O- and A+ are currently running low,according to the Blood Transfusion Service.

She said: "Blood donors save lives everyday and it is important that there is an adequate stock of all blood types to meet the current need.

"I would encourage anyone who can give blood to look out for blood donation sessions in their local area and to donate."

Choice Housing Secures Place Among UK's Best Sheltered Housing Providers

Choice Housing in Northern Ireland has secured a position among the UK's best providers of sheltered housing.

The 10,000-home landlord gained accreditation from the Centre for Housing Support (CHS) for meeting rigorous Service Excellence Standards (SES) criteria in its management of 60 schemes across Northern Ireland that accommodate more than 1,800 people.

The accolade is granted to organisations that demonstrate consistently high standards and professionalism in the delivery of services that enable older people and those with support needs to live independently in the community. In awarding the SES, the assessors highlighted Choice’s commitment to working in partnership with agencies to develop personalised solutions to unique client needs.

Michael McDonnell, Chief Executive of Choice Housing said: "This accreditation evidences the hard work and high standards we insist on at each of our schemes. People can have great confidence in the quality of housing and services we provide. These schemes play an important role enhancing the lives of thousands of people, including some of the most vulnerable in society. We have a bold vision for the future and are committed to continually enhancing and expanding our range of client services."

Bannview Medical Practice To Remain Open

DUP MLA Sydney Anderson has welcomed news that the Bannview Medical Practice will remain open, despite reports that it was to close this month and has repeated calls for a permanent solution to be found.

The practice was reported to be closing on 16 January, however will remain open through the support of the Health and Social Care Board.

Mr Anderson said: "Access to first class healthcare is something which should be readily available to people within their community.

"The proposed closure of Bannview Medical Practice is something which has caused a lot of concern among my constituents in Portadown. Health and well-being is important, hence why both myself and David Simpson MP have been working tirelessly to ask for a permanent solution to the shortage of GP practice staff.

"I have been in contact with the Minister of Health and with local GPs on the current problems facing primary care in Portadown."

(CD)