A HOSPITAL has publicly thanked volunteers who helped patients and NHS staff reach hospital safely during Storm Goretti, after the region was hit by what has been described as the ‘worst snowfall in a decade.’
Storm Goretti brought heavy snow to the West Midlands, causing widespread travel disruption, road closures and leaving many drivers stranded.
Despite the dangerous conditions, residents from across Dudley and surrounding areas stepped forward to offer help.
More than a dozen volunteers with vehicles capable of handling the snow, including 4x4s, spent hours transporting NHS staff and patients to and from Russells Hall Hospital.
Their efforts helped ensure vital appointments were not missed, wards remained safely staffed and essential services continued to operate.
Diane Wake, group chief executive of Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust, praised the community response and said the volunteers played a crucial role during the severe weather.
“I want to applaud the support from our communities as they reacted very quickly with offers of support and practical help to keep us doing the jobs we need to,” she said.
“We are only just at the beginning of January, and it is possible we will have more resilience to find as we move through winter. But I am sure whatever winter throws at us, we are stronger together and I am confident we will work through it together.”
Kimmi Macklin, who is from Dudley and runs Sutton Coldfield-based RB Fleet 24-hour breakdown recovery, estimated over 250 people were safely transported to and from the hospital.
“No one should be faced with the prospect of missing out on care because of the weather,” she said.
“It started out as just a call out on Facebook asking if any drivers were able to lend a hand, but we got a great group of 4x4 drivers - it all snowballed from there."
The trust also shared a message of thanks on their social media to those who helped staff and visitors travel safely during the storm.
“Thank you to our local community for your incredible kindness, especially those who helped staff and visitors travel safely to and from hospital in 4x4s,” the statement said. “Your support has meant so much.”
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