COVID-19 is considered the cause of a dangerous illness that affects people’s lives and, in many cases, threatens the lives of infected people. As a result, this is when the healthcare facilities play a huge part which questions; What is the role of the NHS during these unprecedented times? National Health Service is the umbrella term for the publicly funded healthcare systems of the United Kingdom. Since 1948 they have been funded out of general taxation. Since the start of the pandemic, the NHS has been playing such an important role in supporting and helping all the people of the United Kingdom. They have been serving on the frontline providing holistic care for patients who have all sorts of symptoms. Considering the fact that doctors and nurses play an important aspect of the economy which are the health services. I really am inspired by their determination and motivation as they have put others first in front of them.

An article talking about how nurses have been playing a role during this crisis have stated that “they have more tasks to satisfy patients and their families; therefore, nurses must be well equipped with essential knowledge and skills in managing crises involving clinical treatment, decontamination, isolation, communication, triaging, psychological support, and palliative care if necessary”. I would agree with this as since day one they have been taking care even during times when social distancing is mandatory, I think the work and efforts that they have put in is tremendously huge and definitely deserves the appreciation.

The NHS has been measuring the impact of news ways of working despite coronavirus has disrupted usual working patterns, yet they have imposed changes in the way of working to help us through the pandemic. Although the NHS have been pressurized with an increase in the number of positive cases, and due to its capacity, they have been managing consistently till date. Hospitals are the central point to people’s lives, not only to help recover any health issues, but acts as a protection to all. 

Kathryn, Associate Nurse Director in South Locality of Northumberland, says: “Our amazing staff at Wear Recovery are working hard to support some of the most vulnerable people in society, providing drug and alcohol treatment services for people living in Sunderland. They have gone above and beyond to ensure that despite illness, lockdown and disruption to usual support networks, patients have remained supported and in treatment. They regularly make donations of food and clothing to those in need and are without a doubt true #NHSHeroes – huge thanks and well done to you all!” I certainly would say that the NHS has done an amazing job with coordination and organising any preparation especially for people who have tested positive for coronavirus. Furthermore, they have been offering helpful advice even on their websites and when calling them.

I decided to do some primary research and know how the NHS has helped in one of London’s cities, Hounslow. My friend’s mum Cynthia Rodriguez said that:

“I was tested positive for covid-19 and it was a miserable experience, however I’m grateful with how the NHS has helped me. I had several conversations with them as to what home remedies I can opt to do that would help me recover soon, as I’m a key worker and was worried about my family. The doctor was helpful and gave me advice which made me recover within 10 days. The hospital also made sure that my family and I had been self- isolating and to also maintain self- distancing.” 

To conclude, I believe it's a good cause to help the NHS with even the smallest of tasks, so if you are interested in participating as a volunteer for the NHS, please visit this page: https://www.england.nhs.uk/participation/get-involved/volunteering/ .

Written by Charlotte Picardo, Kingsley Academy