NHS Lothian have made an urgent appeal for ward helpers who can volunteer their time to fight the coronavirus.
It comes after a third Scottish patient died of deadly Covid-19 virus, after 227 cases were confirmed across the country.
Pressure on NHS Lothian continues to rise, with 33 cases now confirmed in the area and patients being treated at Edinburgh's Western General.
NHS Lothian are seeking volunteers who can help ease the strain on wards by working a few hours at a time.
They are keen for people who can commit to the cause and volunteer on multiple occasions. They particularly need people who are available between 5-7pm.
The role of ward helper, will take on a variety of tasks such as, "supporting the distribution of food and drink" and running general errands.
The volunteers will also be able to help sick patients cope with the mental aspects of being socially isolated and can keep patients who are ill company as they are separated from their family.
Volunteer Edinburgh said: Anyone expressing an interest will be sent a brief application form and will be asked to participate in a short induction programme and then will join a bank of volunteers who will be allocated to a ward (at their preferred site) as need demands on the day they are volunteering (meaning people will be at the same site consistently but might be in different wards).
"They are unable to take volunteers from at risk groups.Please see the role description for details.
"For an application form please email: Volunteer.Enquiries@nhslothian.scot.nhs.uk"
