Today we mark a year since the start of the national lockdown, in response to the COVID-19 outbreak.
It is important we both remember those who so sadly died as well as think of those bereaved families who have mourned the loss of a loved one.
We also want to recognise the part our staff have played over the last year. We could not be prouder of each and every one of them.
Our medical director Deepak Dwarakanath said: “We want to use this day to remember those people who have died as a result of this virus as well as think of those families affected.
“Over the course of the last year the organisation has pulled together like never before under the most incredible pressure.
“The togetherness and commitment of our staff has been truly outstanding. We have helped save so many lives which otherwise may have been lost to this awful virus.”
How did the Trust respond to Covid?
“We have helped innovate so that we are not only saving lives but helping find a way out of the situation in the long term. This has been achieved in a number of ways.
“Firstly, through our involvement in the Recovery research trial which has been testing potential treatments. It’s not an exaggeration to say we have been pioneers in this study. We were the first health trust in the country to test two different medications on a patient.
“Secondly, through our participation in the Novavax vaccine trial which has taken place at the University Hospital of Hartlepool and is provisionally showing very strong results.
“And thirdly through our vaccine hub at the University Hospital of North Tees which has already protected so many people including staff, patients and social care partners.
“We could not be prouder of each and every member of the organisation. They have gone above and beyond for our patients. Thank you to them and thank you to our community in the Tees Valley for their amazing support.”
More information
For up-to-date information about COVID-19, please visit the NHS website.