The public is being urged to join a nationwide round of applause to show appreciation for the NHS Heroes who are working tirelessly in Britain's coronavirus fight.
Nurses, paramedics, doctors, receptionists, cooks, cleaners and support staff are working themselves into the ground in hospitals and surgeries throughout the United Kingdom, putting themselves on the front line as rest of the country is urged to stay home to protect themselves from covid-19.
Meanwhile, midwives are bringing new life into the world under tough conditions and former NHS staff are returning back to work after leaving the service or retiring.
Their work will save lives and see the UK through the worst of the covid-19 pandemic. But it will come at a cost. Extra hours, depleted resources and equipment shortages will all add to the burden on their shoulders. Health service stars have kids, grandkids, siblings and elderly relatives of their own to care for and support when they get home from a grueling shift.
A campaign has been launched urging the public to unite in a show of support at 8pm on Thursday March 26 by standing at their doorsteps, balconies or by windows - if safe to do so and while sticking to social distancing advice - to join a round of applause.
The' Clap For Our Carers' campaign poster reads: “During these unprecedented times they need to know that we are grateful.
"Please join us on: 26th March at 8pm for a big applause (from front doors, garden, balcony, windows, living rooms, etc) to show all nurses, doctors, GPs and carers our appreciation for their ongoing hard work and fight against the virus.
"Please share this message, so we can make sure the word spreads and reaches all to join!"
Those joining are encouraged to live stream their applause from their social media accounts.
Shadow Health Secretary Jonathan Ashworth said: "Never have we owed so much to our brilliant and hard working NHS staff. Just as they are caring for us, we need to care for them and give them every ounce of support they need.
"I welcome this fantastic initiative to encourage the public to show their appreciation to all our NHS workers."
We have a live thank you map for NHS workers which you can add your support to here.
