Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre (SLBMC) has been awarded a grant of £25,000 (approximately XCD $90,700) from The Linbury Trust, a UK-based grant-making foundation.
The grant will primarily fund the acquisition of a portable ultrasound system, a critical piece of diagnostic equipment that allows medical teams to perform fast, high-resolution imaging directly at the patient’s bedside. The remaining funds from the grant will be utilized at the hospital’s discretion to procure other high-priority medical equipment.
Dr. Shivon Belle-Jarvis, Medical Director at Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre, expressed direct gratitude for the investment and highlighted its clinical impact.
“This grant from The Linbury Trust directly enhances our bedside diagnostic capabilities,” said Dr. Belle-Jarvis. “The acquisition of the portable ultrasound machine means our physicians can make faster, more accurate clinical decisions in critical moments, significantly improving patient outcomes. Having the flexibility to allocate the remaining funds to other high-priority equipment allows us to address our most immediate clinical needs efficiently.”
The Linbury Trust, part of the wider Sainsbury Family Trust network, was established in 1973 by Lord Sainsbury of Preston Candover KG, and his wife Anya, Lady Sainsbury CBE. The foundation funds work that improves quality of life, particularly in relation to arts, environment and social purpose.
Stuart Hobley, Director of The Linbury Trust, noted the foundation’s ongoing commitment to supporting projects that deliver meaningful and measurable impact within communities.
“We are pleased to support the team at Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre as they work to upgrade their diagnostic infrastructure,” said Stuart Hobley, Director of The Linbury Trust. “Our goal is to provide resources that deliver a measurable, positive impact on community well-being. By contributing to the acquisition of this portable ultrasound equipment, we are helping to ensure that healthcare professionals have the practical tools they need to deliver quality care to patients.”
SLBMC extends its sincere thanks to The Linbury Trust and its Trustees for their generosity and partnership in advancing healthcare services in Antigua & Barbuda.