A frustrated Liverpool paramedic has called on people to think about NHS workers after he was unable to buy food for his family ahead of a 12-hour shift helping coronavirus patients.
The ambulance staff worker, who asked to remain anonymous, contacted the ECHO to ask people to calm down and think differently when it comes to stocking up on food.
There are continual scenes around the city and the country of huge queues at supermarkets and empty shelves inside as people stockpile large amounts of food and supplies during the coronavirus pandemic.
But the paramedic said this is leaving key workers like him unable to get supplies in the brief moments they have away from their crucial work.
He said: "I have a family to feed and provide for and I can’t even get into the supermarket because of the queues.
"I started my shift today yesterday and wanted to do some shopping beforehand - due to the queues I couldn’t get anything.
"I just want people to see and realise that we work 12 hour shifts dealing with sick people and can’t even get a loaf of bread in our local supermarket when we finish."
The paramedic, who is based in Liverpool, said another major issue for him and his colleagues is people continuing to call 999 with mild symptoms despite the enormous pressures being placed on the NHS at present.
He said: "We are doing the best we can as an NHS but people continue ring us with runny noses, they don't seem to realise how busy we are at this time.
"People are being advised to stay at home with the (mild) symptoms and basically ride it out, they should not be calling 999 and wanting to attend hospital unless it is absolutely necessary. We are rushed off our feet as it is."
In a strong message to people, he added: "Just spare a thought for us who are out there doing everything we can for the people that really need us and really think before calling 999.
"There are other services available such as 111 or even calling your own gp.
"Just think do I need an emergency ambulance or can I seek advice and guidance from elsewhere. Save our ambulances for the people that need us most right now."
