DORSET Freemasons has funded a life-saving piece of equipment following a request from University Hospitals Dorset.

The newly formed University Hospitals Dorset NHS Charity had requested assistance for a number of projects towards the end of last year.

One of the projects was for the funding of modern Flo-Jack lifting aids for each of three main hospitals covering east Dorset: the lifting aids cost £6,353 each.

Dorset Freemasonry stepped up to the plate and agreed to fully fund one of the new aids with half the funds coming from Dorset Masonic Care and the half coming being provided by the central Masonic Charitable Foundation.

The Flo-Jack air assisted lifting device helps clinicians safely lift patients from the floor.

The device inflates with air to lift patients from the floor to bed or stretcher height, minimising the risk of injury to both patient and staff.