Duke of Cambridge praises health workers in east of England

Last week The Duke of Cambridge joined a video call with NHS leaders in the East of England to hear more about some of the challenges they are facing in the region, and to thank them and their staff for their continued efforts.

The regional call, chaired on a weekly basis by NHS Regional Director Ann Radmore, allows the CEOs of NHS Trusts in the East of England to meet collectively and assess the regional position, receive updates on key issues, and share best practice and information.

Those on the call spoke to The Duke about recent progress made in the region around the Covid-19 vaccine rollout, and the dedication of NHS staff working tirelessly to ensure the most vulnerable people in society are protected from coronavirus. They also discussed the impact of the pandemic on their and their workforce’s mental health, and the role that NHS leaders can play to ensure that stigma does not prevent frontline workers from seeking help and support when needed.

During the call, The Duke of Cambridge said: “I worked with your workforce several years ago now and I hold them in such high esteem. I want to make sure they are properly acknowledged and appreciated for the efforts and the hard work and sacrifices that everyone has put in... A brilliant, brilliant job by everyone and good luck with the vaccinations.”

Later in the week His Royal Highness also held a number of telephone calls with NHS staff working in non-clinical roles across the UK, including in administration, patient support, and porter and domestic services. The Duke heard ore about their experiences of supporting the NHS throughout the pandemic, and paid tribute to their much-valued work.