Hospital hygiene under scrutiny

Dinner dance organiser Debbie Howarth (left) hands over the proceeds to Sheila Mitchell, fundraiser for the National Concern for Healthcare Infections.

A WOMAN who contracted a potentially-deadly hospital infection six years ago is battling to raise awareness of the plight of thousands of patients.

Sheila Mitchell (61), of Dunwood Avenue, Shaw, developed clostridium difficile after being admitted to the Royal Oldham Hospital.

She has suffered the effects ever since, and the experience prompted her to join the National Concern for Healthcare Infections campaign for better standards of hygiene in hospitals and care homes.

She said: “When I felt better, I decided to join the group and was allocated the job of fundraiser.

“It hasn’t been easy during the recession, but people have been extremely receptive to the message we have been trying to get across.

“Take responsibility for your own safety by using the gel provided as well as washing your hands, and make sure all healthcare staff who give you treatment do so as well.”

The group works alongside nursing groups, microbiologists, Health Secretary Andy Burnham and the World Health Organisation to further its aims.

Sheila gained the support of Debbie Howarth, the wife of local businessman Brian Howarth, in her fundraising efforts.

She organised a dinner dance at Crompton and Royton Golf Club, with music from Dave Wolstenholme and girl duo Light and Soul, and comedy from Venn Tracey.

It raised a huge £1,582 for the cause.