His Royal Highness The Duke of Cambridge led a surprise morale boosting ‘virtual visit’ to thank staff at Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust for all their efforts caring for patients during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Seven critical care staff from across Aintree University Hospital and the Royal Liverpool University Hospital were invited to receive a very important video call from a surprise caller.
When The Duke appeared he was met with gasps of excitement from the team as they reacted to their surprise call. The team was in complete shock and overwhelmed to receive such a special call.
The Duke commented on Liverpool’s famous sense of humour and the impressive efforts from the team, remarking: “You are really doing a fantastic job, and the country is so grateful.”
The Duke was interested to hear from staff about how their roles have changed in response to COVID-19, what it is like wearing personal protective equipment (PPE), how they are supporting patients and each other, what the impact has been on their mental health and how they have been keeping their spirits high.
Concluding the call His Royal Highness said: “I can see that you, as do all intensive care staff, go above and beyond every day, and your sense of humour keeps you going. Do look after yourselves.”
Steve Warburton, Chief Executive at Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said:
“I was incredibly proud that our critical care team received a surprise video call with The Duke of Cambridge. It was such a special way to acknowledge how hard everyone has been working. The news of the call was shared with the wider critical care team and colleagues throughout our hospitals and it has been a fantastic boost to morale!”
