New Northern Echo Teesside edition launched

To mark the launch, this week editor Hannah Chapman visited the Butterwick Hospice in Stockton, to present a cheque for £3,000 on behalf of the Gannett Foundation, run by the Echo’s parent company.

The money will be used to buy a specialist floor standing hoist to help staff move patients safely.

Val Storey, clinical lead for adults at the hospice, said: “We are really grateful. The new hoist will allow our patients to be safely and comfortably transferred, in a timely manner with the dignity they deserve.”

The new equipment will replace an old hoist which is worn and difficult to source parts for when it breaks down. The hospice said having a new hoist will reduce waiting times for patients, allowing them to be moved safely and comfortably.

The Northern Echo Editor Hannah Chapman at Butterick Hospice. Pictured with Sam Benton, Healthcare Assistant, Chris Butler, Healthcare Assistant, Lisa Milestone, Clinical Sister, and Lyndsey Barnes

Hannah said: “The Northern Echo has been a huge supporter of the Butterwick Hospice for many years, and given the difficulties they have been experiencing, most recently with staffing shortages forcing the closure of the children’s unit, we are thrilled to be able to hand over £3,000 for this important piece of kit.”

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The Northern Echo is celebrating its 150th anniversary this year, and is launching a new Teesside edition today to concentrate on quality news from the boroughs of Stockton, Middlesbrough, Redcar and Cleveland and Hartlepool.

“We are really excited to launch the new edition,” said Hannah. “Butterwick, its supporters and committed volunteers are a shining example of what can be achieved when the people of Teesside work together.

“We’re looking forward to following developments at Butterwick, and bringing you the best of Teesside’s news – online, in print and via our social media. If you have a story you think we should be telling, don’t hesitate to get in touch.”