NHS Borders has given an assurance that toiletries are still being supplied free of charge to patients in the Borders General Hospital.

The health board was responding to a claim by a member of staff, who wishes to remain anonymous, that nurses at the Borders General Hospital are being asked to bring in their own products with which to wash patients and that this is the result of budget cuts.

But a spokesperson for NHS Borders told us this week: “We continue to supply toiletries to patients at the BGH and community hospitals.

“Items include bars of soap, toothpaste, toothbrushes, combs, razors, shampoo and cleansing wipes on request.

“NHS Borders will encourage patients to bring in their own toiletries to complement the items we provide. Staff are not expected to supply products for patient use.”