British Airways cabin crew are set to be drafted in to help out at Croydon University Hospital in the fight against coronavirus.

A group of 20 cabin staff from the airline is set to lend a helping hand to clinical staff from Monday (April 6).

The new additions will be vital in freeing up doctors and nurses to focus on caring for patients.

Their tasks will include changing beds and helping patients to keep in touch with their families using digital technology.

Chief nurse Elaine Clancy who is leading the hospital’s response to COVID-19, said: “Our nurses, doctors and other healthcare professionals are working tirelessly to provide the best possible care to our patients.

 “Airline staff are first aid trained or hold other clinical qualifications as well as being security cleared, so they will be a great asset to our busy teams.

“COVID-19 has proved to be an unprecedented challenge for us and our dedicated staff are doing everything possible for our patients.

“We’re incredibly grateful for this additional support, which will help our clinicians to focus completely on delivering lifesaving care.”

Thousands of British Airways staff have been furloughed since the Covid-19 pandemic grounded most planes.

This means they will get 80 per cent of their wages up to £2,500 a month.

Staff on furlough were called on to volunteer at hospitals across the country.

Louise Evans, the airline’s director of external communications and sustainability, said: “We’ve had an overwhelming response to our request for volunteers from across British Airways to help in the community fight against coronavirus.

“We’re part of the fabric of Britain and we want to play our role in these unprecedented times.”

All support workers will receive expert training and work alongside experienced clinicians at Croydon University Hospital.