Hospital radio has played a pivotal role in the lives of patients in Glasgow for decades.
The current pandemic has meant that like a large proportion of us, hosts and presenters have had to swap the studio for the sofa.
Volunteers at Glasgow's Hospital Broadcasting Service have been working hard to maintain the regular service remotely from their homes.
The service, which broadcasts daily to patients at the Beatson, Gartnavel, Queen Elizabeth University Hospital and Royal Alexandrea hospitals, has continued to provide its regular programming including dedicated messages and musical tributes.
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They may be unable to visit patients in hospital, but HBS chairman Niall Anderson says volunteers have “risen to the challenge” by continuing to broadcast live shows over the last few months.
He said: “While it would be easy during the lockdown restrictions to just step back and say that we aren't able to provide a service, the team have found ways to continue broadcasting programmes including the nightly live request shows.
“Our biggest issue has been how to publicise the service while we are unable to physically visit the wards but again the team has been figuring out new ways to achieve this.
"I'm really proud of everyone and the work they have been putting in to keep us on-air.”
The station, which runs entirely on public donations, broadcasts 24 hours daily with volunteers presenting a variety of shows
Ross Turnbull, 26, who presents a nightly music request show on Wednesday evenings said: “At the moment with the world being turned on it’s head, hospital radio is more important than ever.
“Patients can’t be visited by loved ones so hopefully the friendly voices on hospital radio can bridge some of that gap.
“Working from home initially for myself was a challenge, not just because it was a new working environment but it means I’m also a lot closer to the biscuit tin than I’d like!”
Robert Craw, 60, who has been presenting various shows for HBS for five years, said although working from home has been a challenge, it is just as worthwhile for volunteers.
He said: “Getting to grips with the technology and software has been a major learning curve for me, but being able to continue to bring live entertainment to patients and listeners is a real pleasure.
“The Covid-19 pandemic meant patients have not been allowed visitors. Because of this, HBS can be a lifeline for patients, as well as family and friends who can text or email HBS to request a song or make a dedication for the patient.
“For patients, just hearing your name or a special piece of music can do so much to raise morale, bring back memories and connect with loved ones.”
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