East Devon businesses are being urged to once again unite behind hard-pressed NHS workers and care staff.
Many companies across all sectors have rallied in support of the unseen heroes of the pandemic throughout the Covid-19 crisis – but while goodwill remains, direct support has waned, says business organisation the CBI.
That is why it is launching #BusinessesBackingNHS, which encourages firms to once again step up and show their appreciation for the NHS teams still fighting to save thousands of desperately ill Covid patients.
The CBI speaks on behalf of 190,000 businesses and is calling on them to engage with their local NHS authorities to explore how best they can help. Gestures large or small – ranging from day-to-day support like donated meals or discounted services, to practical help such as offering resources or manpower to accelerate vaccination drives – are all welcomed.
The Herald reported recently how Branscombe Brewery was helping to deliver goodwill bags to staff at the Royal Devon & Exeter Hospital – an initiative led by brewery owner Paul Dimond’s daughter-in-law Sharon Pavey.
CBI South West director Deborah Fraser, said: “British business has made remarkable contributions to the national effort from the outset of the pandemic, from pivoting operations to meet the ventilator challenge in spring, to donating PPE and food to those in need throughout the summer.
“Companies were quick and creative in backing our brilliant NHS workers, who were buoyed by this outpouring of kindness.
“However, while the NHS continues to struggle under incredible pressure, some of the early support has dried up. After nearly a year fighting the pandemic, doctors, nurses and care workers need – and deserve – to know they have not been forgotten.
“I would therefore urge every business to look again at how they can help – even the smallest gesture can make a meaningful difference to those who have toiled tirelessly to protect us all during the pandemic’s darkest days.”
But the CBI stressed it is important that well-meaning businesses don’t put pressure on hospitals or vaccination centres. Firms who would like to help should send the details of their idea to NHSI.Help4NHS@NHS.net.
Companies can also visit the CBI website to find out more about how they can help.