THE Community Hospital in Okehampton is central to the local area, but how much do people really know about the services available at the hospital?

Friends of Okehampton Community Hospital aims to support the work of the hospital, and wants to raise the profile of the services available there.

The Dartmoor Ward is a central provision at Okehampton Community Hospital. With 16 beds and staff providing 24-hour care for inpatients, it is a central provision, regarded very highly by inspectors, patients and staff alike.

The hospital's minor injury unit is open between 8am and 10pm seven days a week, and a small survey at Okehampton Show revealed how much this service is appreciated

One of the most valued services provided by the hospital is the community maternity services, including ante-natal, delivery and post-natal support, both in the birthing centre and at home, ensuring these vital services remain part of the community.

There are more than 20 regular outpatient clinics, covering areas such as physiotherapy, speech therapy, family planning, child health, diet advice, Parkinson's disease and psychological services.

The clinics are changed on a regular basis, in order to meet local need and avoid time consuming and costly trips to Exeter.

The community nursing team, mental health services, and complex care team are all based in the hospital, providing vital help and support for a wide range of people in the local community.

Friends of Okehampton Community Hospital carries out vital fundraising work to help support the hospital in continuing to provide and improve its wide range of services.

The group also gets actively involved in the hospital, and has recently restarted the ward trolley service. Hospital staff, patients and their families all benefit greatly from the work of the volunteers.

The group's annual meeting will be held at the hospital on Wednesday, April 6 at 7pm.?All members and interested people are most welcome.