The Armed Forces have now been dispatched into NHS hospitals across London to help with critical staff shortages caused by the covid-19 pandemic.
It has been reported this morning (7 Jan) that The Ministry of Defence will provide 40 defence medics and 160 general duty personnel over the coming weeks in London.
Jane Clegg, regional chief nurse for the NHS London, said: “We are thankful for the support of the armed forces alongside thousands of NHS staff, as they respond to the increased demands brought by Covid – ensuring continued high quality care and treatment for the many Londoners being looked after by the NHS this winter.”
Health Secretary Sajid Javid said: “Once again they are stepping up to assist NHS workers who are working round the clock across the capital, helping the health service through this difficult winter period where the need is greatest.
“The most important thing you can do is get boosted now to protect your loved ones and communities from Covid-19.”
Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said the Armed Forces would again be working “hand-in-hand” with NHS staff “to protect the nation from Covid-19”.
He also added: “They have shown their worth time and again throughout this pandemic, whether driving ambulances, administering vaccines or supporting patients in hospital and they should be proud of their contribution to this truly national effort.”
Within the UK at the moment, there are approximately 1,800 armed forces personnel helping the NHS response to the Covid-19 pandemic, made up of both regular and reservists from the RAF, Navy and the Army.
