Applause a boost to health workers

Public recognition for NHS staff is appreciated as battle goes on

Health bosses have expressed their gratitude after thousands of people across Tayside and Fife applauded, cheered and clattered on pots and pans in an emotional show of support for NHS workers battling the coronavirus.

The Clap for Carers movement was even embraced at Montrose Port, where a number of ships sounded their horns in a show of solidarity at 8pm on Thursday.

NHS Tayside chief executive Grant Archibald said he and his colleagues wanted to thank everyone who took the time to take part.

“They should know that their actions are making our staff feel even more appreciated at this unprecedented time,” he said.

“We have an amazing team of health and social care workers here in Tayside and together we have achieved so much over the past few weeks. I would like everyone to know how proud I am of their response.

“I would also like to thank all members of the public who are doing the right thing by staying home and practising social distancing. As we head into the weekend, it is important everyone keeps doing that and our message is clear; Stay Home. Protect the NHS. Save Lives.”

NHS Fife chief executive Carol Potter said she was “brought to tears” by the demonstration.

“My heart goes out to each and every one of you in health and care across Fife,” she said.

“You’re all amazing.”

The event has been trending across the nation on social media with the hashtag #clapforcarers.

Tom Hutchison, Montrose Port chief executive officer, said: “Hearing the horns echo out in chorus was really poignant and going by all the messages we’ve received since sent a really positive message to, not only our NHS staff but the community as a whole, that we are all standing together in solidarity to get through this.”

Fife’s depute provost Julie Ford said: “It was fantastic to step outside my front door and join so many neighbours.

“A little bit of appreciation for those who are literally saving lives right now can go a long way.”

Perth and Kinross provost Dennis Melloy said: “It was fantastic. Everyone is really coming together as a community.

“The NHS are doing a really great job behind the scenes.

“It’s wonderful how everyone is pulling together.”

“They should know that their actions are making our staff feel even more appreciated at this unprecedented time.

NHS TAYSIDE CHIEF EXECUTIVE GRANT ARCHIBALD