Sitrling’s MSP Bruce Crawford and MP Alyn Smith have praised the nearly-400 nursing students from the University of Stirling who have stepped up to help health care workers in the challenges faced with the coronavirus pandemic.

The University reported that nine medical teaching staff have also stepped up to help.

Those looking to volunteer their services in any capacity are encouraged to register through the Scottish Government’s dedicated site: www.readyscotland.org.

Commenting, Bruce Crawford said:

“I have nothing but admiration for these people and I want to thank them for what they’ve done and what this’ll mean for the healthcare effort to beat this virus.

“Across the country, we are seeing lots of people – from community groups and businesses, to our emergency services and nursing students – demonstrating that they’re ready to help people in any way they can. That’s the sleeves-rolled-up attitude that’s going to get us through this.”

Alyn Smith added:

“There continues to be an upward trend in coronavirus cases in Scotland and it is demanding a lot of our NHS. The NHS Louisa Jordan is being set up in Glasgow to help with a likely growth in demand for hospital services for Covid-19 patients, but growing the health service’s workforce is also vital to ensure that Scotland’s NHS continues to be able to tackle this disease effectively.

“I’d also like to thank the amazing people who have put themselves forward to help. They have stepped up to the mark at a time when we need them most and for that we are all grateful.”