Here’s how you can support staff at Liverpool Royal University Hospital Trust right now

Liverpool Royal University Hospitals Trust has launched new welfare fund to look after its staff and support them as they battle the Covid-19 virus.

In an emotional appeal, fundraising development manager Aimee Clare, says: “We are asking them to risk their lives and work under circumstances that are trying, stressful and uncertain.

“We want to show them we are thinking about them, and that we are thankful and appreciate what they are doing.”

And she adds: “If we can make things a little better for them or make them feel a little happier or comfortable while they are focusing their efforts on fighting this horrible virus that’s taking the lives of thousands across the UK, then that’s what we would like to do.”

The new staff welfare fund was set up on March 31.

Although the hub of the fund is based at the Royal Liverpool University Hospital, help and support will be given to staff at hospitals across the Trust.

Aimee, who works for R Charity, says the fund is two-fold, to raise money and to get support in kind.

“Staff are working around the clock to provide the best care possible and to support patients and their families as well as they can, and it is because of this that we have launched our Liverpool Hospitals Staff Welfare Appeal.

“It is essentially an appeal to businesses and organisations although the public can offer their support too, while obviously observing guidelines and staying safe.

“A Community Hub has been set up within The Royal Liverpool to receive gifts in kind which will be distributed to our front-line staff within our hospitals. Examples of help needed includes hand cream because some staff members have found it difficult to get hold of it and their hands are dry and sore from constant hand washing and sanitiser, lip balm, hand sanitiser, tea/coffee, packed food like biscuits and chocolates, , bottles of water, and other toiletry items.

“We have even had PJs donated!

“It’s anything anybody thinks someone might need or really like to make them feel better, and show them we are behind them. Staff are working longer hours, they’re working their socks off, they have had leave cancelled…

“They are having to make a lot of personal sacrifices. This is a way of us saying thank you.”

Financial donations will also help to make a positive difference to the teams in ‘these worrying times’.

“Fundraising is always a priority within our hospitals, just as it is in hospitals around the country and in these pressured times it’s required more than ever,” adds Aimee.

“We have set up a fund that is focused solely on helping during the Cobid-19 crisis so that we have a pot of money that will help either to buy items that staff would benefit from or need, or even equipment that would support them in doing their jobs.

“We will update people on our Facebook page as to what the money is spent on and what the needs of our staff are, as, when or if they or our requests change.”

Anyone wanting to help with essential items can email the fundraising team via sfsdonations@liverpoolft.nhs.uk or phone 0151 706 3153.

Cash donations can be made via the website here.

“People across Merseyside are being affected by this virus in such a huge way.

“We simply want to look after those people who are looking after us and our loved ones,” says Aimee. “Every hospital wants to provide world class care, the best care possible, and our staff deserve to be supported in doing this.

“People can help us to support them, and we would really appreciate that.

“And thank you so much to those who have already donated to our appeal. We are extremely grateful to you all; your support will make such a difference.”