“This is absolutely fantastic! Best thing NHS Western Isles has announced for a long time!” was just one of many positive comments posted to the NHSWI Facebook page to news that NHSWI’s Public Health team would host an information stall at the first Hebrides Pride event, held in Stornoway on Saturday (October 6th).

Dr Maggie Watts, NHSWI Director of Public Health, said: “The National Health Service is here for everyone’s needs and I am pleased that we can provide health and wellbeing information that is particularly helpful for people in the LGBT community.”

Valuing and encouraging the diversity of cultures represented by the islands population it serves, NHSWI presented a host of health and wellbeing information on a variety of topics, including screening, sexual health and mental health. Public praise continued on the NHSWI Facebook page: “Well done Isabel Steele & Co…amazing that your islands have embraced this today,” read another comment, giving credit to NHSWI Health Promotions officer Isabel, and colleagues Marion Matheson, Norma MacLeod, and Lorraine Gillies; while another added: “Fab Work NHS Western Isles!”

And a number of NHSWI staff joined to celebrate Hebrides Pride, as Dr Watts added: “We’re really encouraged by the people who turned out for the walk, the interest in health issues, and the conversations people have had to support each other.”

Pictured at the Information Stall (L-R) are: Tabie MacDonald (Pride organiser), Isabel Steele (NHSWI), Norma Neill (NHSWI-retired), Marion Matheson (NHSWI), Lorraine Gillies (NHSWI) and Karl Easton (Pride organiser).