The health team at the centre of coronavirus care have been overwhelmed by public support to help the loved ones of patients.
Under infection control rules, patients with COVID-19 are not able to have visitors – something which is very challenging and difficult for families.
Charlotte Ledger, a critical care nurse at North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust, had an idea to do something to help.
This was to create knitted love-hearts for the relatives of patients.
She issued a plea on her social media for people to get involved – and the team in intensive care at the University Hospital of North Tees have taken aback by the huge response!
Acting clinical co-ordinator in critical care, Tracey Oldfield, said: “Sadly patients are not allowed visitors during the outbreak. So the aim of the hearts is to help families feel connected to their loved ones in a small way by both the patient and family member having a heart with them.
“Charlotte’s plea went viral receiving over 3,200 shares across the region. Kind and generous crafty heart-makers have been very busy. Lovingly made love-hearts have begun to flood in ready for the staff in the unit to give to their patients are relatives.
“Thank you so much to the public for their support, we really appreciate everything people are doing to support us and the NHS at this time.”
The team are also creating personalised cards which will be sent to patients’ loved ones to offer their support.
Pictured are, from left to right, housekeeper Lois Williams, matron Steph Gale, team support Cath Ruocco and acting clinical co-ordinator in critical care Tracey Oldfield.