FRIMLEY Health Charity has sent a huge ‘thank you’ to residents in Farnham for their overwhelming response during the past few weeks of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The charity praised local schools, colleges, businesses and individual residents for the outpouring of support, well wishes and donations for its dedicated NHS staff as it today officially launched Frimley Health’s Covid-19 Fund.

The fund has been set up to support Frimley Health NHS Foundation Trust’s incredible staff, who work around the clock, under huge pressure, to provide patients with the care they need in these most difficult times.

Donations made via frimleyhealthcharity.org or 01276 604642 will help to provide vital equipment for the intensive care units and the Covid teams at Frimley Health, and support the wellbeing of NHS staff in the future.

Andrew House, director of Frimley Health Charity, said: “Staff have been genuinely moved by the wonderfully kind words and ongoing offers of help from the local community.

"All hospitals are under severe strain and we urgently need to continue to support our staff in every way we can. That’s not just in the next critical few weeks but also in the aftermath of the pandemic to protect their emotional wellbeing.

"We urge anyone who does want to make a contribution to donate to the Covid-19 Fund, to help our staff deal with the unpredictable and unprecedented demands placed upon them in the coming months.”

Frimley Health’s 12,000 strong workforce based across the hospitals Frimley Park, Wexham Park and Heatherwood and in local community services, are fighting the biggest challenge the NHS has faced in its history.

Many staff are now caring for patients with coronavirus, either in hospital, or in patients’ homes. Others are working tirelessly in different parts of the hospitals to ensure patients who are not unwell with the virus still have access to vital services.

Janet King, deputy chief executive, Frimley Health Foundation Trust said: “Every day we are immensely proud of our staff and the vital work they do. The dedication they have demonstrated in response to Covid-19 is remarkable.

"Amidst the worry and concern that some staff are understandably feeling, all are true and valued professionals. Making personal sacrifices and always putting patients first, while working under extreme pressure.

"We cannot thank them enough for their commitment and work they have done and will continue to do.

“It has been heartwarming to see such a strong community spirit and this fund gives everyone the opportunity to stand shoulder to shoulder with our staff.”