East Suffolk and North Essex residents thanked for supporting NHS
Residents raised £650,000 to support staff at their local NHS Trust
ESNEFT is sending "10,000 thanks" to the public following an appeal to raise funds to support it 10,000 strong workforce of paid staff and volunteers during the pandemic.
The generosity of local people saw £650,000 raised which has been spent on initiatives to boost emotional wellbeing.
That includes training staff as mental health first aiders so they can support others, and the roll-out of the trust's new wellbeing hub.
Colchester and Ipswich Hospitals have also seen the installation of furnished and heated marquees so staff can enjoy their breaks away from clinical areas, with more rest areas to be created in the new year.
ESNEFT's sites, including those within the community, have also benefitted with new comfortable chairs, fridges and microwaves for staff rooms, new outdoor seating areas and artwork to brighten corridors.
All 10,000 members of staff and volunteers have also been given vouchers to spend in hospital canteens or in local cafes.
Mandy Jordan, Associate Director of Charity and Voluntary Services, said: "We would like to say a big thank you to everyone who donated so generously to our COVID-19 staff wellbeing appeal, as well as to NHS Charities Together.
"We have been able to do a huge amount with the money, including funding lots of little projects which will make a big difference to our hard-working staff every single day.
"Helping to safeguard the emotional and physical wellbeing of everyone who works or volunteers at ESNEFT is also good news for those who rely on our services, as it means our staff can continue to do their very best for the patients in their care."