MSP Emma Harper to return to nursing in coronavirus fight

  • Border

An MSP for the south of Scotland is planning to return to her former nursing career to help in the Coronavirus outbreak.

Emma Harper, who has 30 years experience as a nurse, worked at Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary before being elected to the Scottish Parliament four years ago.

Harper has 30 years experience as a nurse. Credit: MSP Emma Harper

Speaking to ITV Border, Emma Harper MSP said: "I think it's important that we reach out to people who were former NHS employees, nurses, doctors, people who've even retired.

"I'm one of those nurses that has been qualified for 30 years. I'm now an MSP but when the time comes I'm offering my services because I would be very happy to help."

It was suggested at the start of the month that retired NHS staff could return to wards to help relieve pressure on NHS workforce during the outbreak.

Harper has type 1 diabetes which means she may be stopped from entering high-risk areas. She isn't expecting to be needed in the short term but she has made it clear that if pressure at the hospital increases she will be available.

  • More on this story on tonight's Representing Border.