Support available for NHS Forth Valley staff who have 'been through the mill' in 2020

During a press briefing this week NHS Forth Valley medical director Andrew Murray said: “Staff have put in a hell of a shift over the last nine months. When COVID-19 first started it was so new and different in the beginning and staff received huge support from the general public.

“It’s different now – people have become complacent about things and our staff are still having to cope with COVID-19 and do their regular work as well. They have gone above and beyond over the last nine months.

“They have been through the mill and we will continue to do everything we can to support them.”

Dr Graham Foster, NHS Forth Valley director of public health, added: “It’s really important we look after our staff across all the agencies – staff in care homes are working really hard as are the police.

“It’s something everyone is feeling – it’s really tough just now and you don’t want to single out an particular staff group because it’s been really tough for everyone. We are conscious of the strains people are facing. “

Dr Foster highlighted online mental health support and well being resources available to staff, including It’s Okay To Not Be Okay, as well as staff sanctuaries which are available throughout the hospital.

“If people feel they are in trouble mentally then they need to seek help and not keep it bottled up,” he added.