Derriford Critical Incident ‘Care Package’

I’m Fi, a junior doctor training in Emergency Medicine in North Devon. Tonight, 12th August, our ‘neighbour’ colleagues in Derriford Hospital (Plymouth, Devon) are responding to a Critical Incident which will undoubtedly impart a huge physical & emotional toll - on top of an exhausting 18 months and unprecedented summer pressures.

I posted on the Tea & Empathy Facebook group re: suggestions to support the staff tonight - my initial idea being to send a large food delivery to help sustain those working through the night. On reflection, it will prove difficult to ensure this gets to the hospital without logistical difficulties as part of the ongoing response often includes restricting access to the hospital site to non-essential visitors, but many offered to chip in to fund the idea.

Feedback from those involved in prior incidents pointed out that often the following days are as - or more difficult - and support is appreciated during those times. As such, I have decided to put together several large packages of items to be delivered this weekend along with messages of support. Depending on resources available, I intend to send packages to Emergency Dept, Theatres/Surgery, ICU, & Bereavement/Mortuary. The scope has already expanded beyond my initial focus of Derriford ED and if funds exceed the goal, I will also endeavour to do the same for local ambulance teams - our SWAST colleagues are the frontline.

If you would like to donate toward this, make a suggestion for box contents, or leave a message of support to be passed on please get involved.

Original post (comments of support on this post will be added to boxes): Original post on T&E

Any questions etc., please message via Facebook and I will look out for them.

I will update this page with photos & further info on box contents and recipient departments when finalised.

Many thanks.