The lives of millions of people in South America could be transformed thanks to Babcock’s Rosyth workforce.
The company is using its expert maritime support skills to turn the MV Forth Hope, a vessel belonging to Edinburgh-based international volunteering charity Vine Trust, into its latest medical ship.
Babcock is completing the fit out over the next few months in support of the charity’s tireless work to expand its medical cover which reaches some of the most remote communities in the world.
The firm, with support from 14 other business sponsors, is transforming the 35-metre ship into a fully functioning medical ship featuring a laboratory and technical and dental facilities.
It is the fourth medical ship launched by the charity and its chief executive, the Rev Willie McPherson, said: “Since 1985, Vine Trust has made a difference to the lives of countless people, with our medical work alone having served over 1.3 million patients, who lack access to basic healthcare provision.
“Our medical ships have helped vulnerable people in some of the most remote places in the world.”
It is anticipated the ship, which should be complete in late spring, will provide free healthcare to more than two million patients over the next 25 years.
Mr McPherson added: “Without the company’s generous commitment to provide the skills and expertise to carry out the internal outfitting of Forth Hope, this project would not have proceeded. Babcock’s involvement has not just been a game-changer, it has been a game-maker. We couldn’t be more grateful.”
