During these very difficult times I find it disgraceful that Hospedia, the patient TV/communication supplier is charging extortionate rates of 13p per minute to keep in touch with family members.

My 85-year-old mother is presently an in-patient at the Royal Bolton Hospital. In addition to her present condition she suffers from early signs of dementia, and with no experience in social media or mobile phones is isolated from family due to the strict visiting restrictions.

She is only contactable using this service. When you ring you are read a statement outlining the costs, which itself is a drawn out message that adds to cost.

I find that while the nurses and NHS staff are running around and have the support of the nation, this company is taking advantage of poorly people some whom have no other means of contact with their families.

I have rung twice, at a cost of £9.84, and as my mother is hard of hearing found it difficult to get anywhere.

Surely this service should contribute to the efforts of the country and reduce or cancel these charges for the elderly patients.

M Norris