War Room, distributing chronic medication to the community

Ward 3 War Room has become more than a mere platform to air social ills.

Cllr Matthew Shunmugam said approximately 155 chronic medication patients make use of the medical services offered by the War Room every Tuesday.

“All medication is pre-packed and distributed to the community. This is done in conjunction with the Health Department, pharmacy, clinic and Amajuba District Health,” he said.

Cllr Shunmugam explained the need for the distribution of chronic medication arose after the rationalisation of the hospital’s services.

“People did not want to have to go all the way to Madadeni Provincial Hospital for their medication. In an attempt to solve the matter, I helped organise that the medication be brought closer.”

Initially, medication was dispensed at Lennoxton Library, but the service was later moved to the War Room.

“It is more convenient, as it takes quicker and the queues are shorter than the clinic and hospital. Even if you come later in the morning, there is not much of a wait. Another benefit is the New Age Of Newcastle (NAON) hands out coffee, tea, juice and sandwiches to the people,” said Cllr Shunmugam.

Community based groups functioned at the War Room almost daily.

“We have a dance group, as well as a yoga and zumba class. Fishing clubs also have meetings at the War Room,” Cllr Shunmugam said.

He encouraging the Ward 3 residents to not feel shy about visiting the War Room.

“This is a public facility and we want the community to be able to use it to the fullest.”