AIREDALE NHS Foundation Trust has received an £8,000 boost.

It is among seven health trusts across Yorkshire to share in a £56,000 windfall from cash plan provider Sovereign Health Care.

Most of the money is to help fund the training and development of nurses.

Sovereign is a long-time supporter of the NHS through its community programme.

Over the past 12 years, more than £1.7 million has been donated.

And last year alone, £361,000 was given to the NHS in Yorkshire.

Russ Piper, for Sovereign Health Care, said: “We’re extremely proud to have the opportunity to provide funds to these seven trusts for another year.

“Our annual donations to the NHS are primarily focused on providing important training for nurses and supporting the facilities they work in.

“This year is the International Year of the Nurse and Midwife – putting the spotlight on the essential care they provide – and so it is particularly apt that we continue to help the trusts to invest in further education and support.”

Jill Asbury, director of nursing at Airedale NHS Foundation Trust, said Sovereign’s continued support was invaluable.

“The donations have allowed us to support many of our staff by extending their knowledge and competencies,” she added.

“We have been able to provide ward staff with learning and development including programmes for reducing patient falls and improving care of frail patients, attendance at national conferences and courses providing latest specialist knowledge. The support has also boosted our equipment fund, allowing us to purchase specialist kit to support patients receiving palliative care.”