Two porters at Wishaw General have received praise and an award for the way they sensitively helped a bereaved family whose relative passed away at the hospital.

Stuart Watson and David Law received the award for “Safe/Exemplary/Professional Practice” from their employers Serco after being nominated by hospital chaplain Harry McKenna.

Harry explained: “There were particular circumstances which meant the patient’s family wanted him to be taken straight to a private ambulance rather than to the hospital mortuary.

“We had great support from managers and medical and nursing staff to achieve this, and the porters were put on standby to ensure they were available as soon as the ambulance arrived. It was a great example of teamwork.

“Stuart and David came to the ward and spoke to the seven family members in a respectful and dignified way, which continued as we journeyed down in the lift.

“The porters don’t usually come into direct contact with upset relatives following the death of a patient and Stuart and David handled the very emotional situation incredibly well. I was determined to see their professionalism recognised and I’m delighted they got the award.”

Stuart, who has been a porter at Wishaw General since the hospital opened in 2001, said: “I was in charge of the shift when Harry asked for our support and I was glad we could help. We tried to be as sensitive and understanding as we could for the family at a difficult time for them.

“It was a great surprise to get the award. It was presented at an awards event during a Serco conference in York.”

David, who has been a porter for six years, added: “We are in a caring profession and I hope that was reflected in the way we supported the family.”