Since the pandemic first struck, our incredible staff have continually gone above and beyond to ensure we could provide the best care possible: relocating several of our cancer services in a week; blitzing through our planned surgery backlog; setting up a vaccine hub in just a few weeks; and ensuring a dying patient had that last goodbye with his family are just some of the examples of the lengths they’ve gone to.

So this week, we’re holding our own Thank You Week, to try and go some way towards showing them how appreciated they are. We’re delighted that some well-known faces are helping us celebrate. We’ve got videos recognising their hard work from players of both the men’s and women’s teams at West Ham United, including Ben Johnson and Grace Fisk. Mr Motivator himself, who grew to fame in the 90s with his quest to get us active (in colourful Lycra of course!) will also be providing a special virtual workout for our teams.

Speaking about our Thank You Week, West Ham United star Ben Johnson (pictured)  said: “I’d like to thank all of the incredible staff at BHRUT for all they’ve done and continue to do for us all during such tough times. It’s been such a difficult year and to be able to play a part in the Trust’s Thank You Week for its staff is an honour. All of us at West Ham United are so grateful for their bravery and hard work.”

Tony Chambers, our Chief Executive, said: “While we know we can never fully express how grateful we are for how each and every one of our teams stepped up, Thank You Week is an important way to show our appreciation.

“The pandemic has been difficult for everyone, however, despite whatever challenges they have faced, our teams have never wavered in their dedication to their patients. Throughout this time we’ve known how important caring for our staff is, they are our best asset. However, we don’t think that with Covid cases reducing and lockdown easing, this stops. Looking after our staff wellbeing will continue to be a top priority for us.”

Thank You Week kicks off today (Monday 26 April) with a visit of the Metropolitan Police wellbeing dog Dexter and horses to Queen’s Hospital, while there will be a kickboxing class at King George Hospital.

There is a packed scheduled of activities across both hospitals during the week, as well as virtual activities. Highlights include: a nutrition webinar with West Ham nutritionist Matt Jones, free reflexology and sports massages; an opportunity to take part in African drumming; Yoga sessions; the chance to get your bike sorted with Dr Bike; and a virtual quiz with prizes. All Trust staff will also benefit from an additional annual leave day as part of the week.

Thank You Week was put together following feedback from staff to our Wellbeing team on what they would like to see more of.

A raft of wellbeing support was put in place for our teams throughout the pandemic, including Let it Out sessions, counselling and bereavement support. Departments will also be benefitting from improved staff rest areas thanks to support from the King George and Queen’s Hospitals Charity.