'Now is not the time to be complacent' - Hartlepool hospital workers' message after spike in virus cases

Staff at the University Hospital of Hartlepool who also live in the town are appealing to fellow Hartlepudlians for their continued support in sticking to social distancing guidelines.

It comes after the town experienced a recent spike in cases and had the fifth highest rate of infection in England.

In the letter the Hartlepool health team says: “Collectively, we have helped save lives. We have followed the government’s guidelines en-masse.

“Now is not the time to be complacent. We know we can count on you to continue in this aim.”

Deepak Dwarakanath, medical director and deputy chief executive at North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust, said the recent spike in Hartlepool was a sign that people need to continue to be vigilant.

He said: “Together, we have done so much to reduce the numbers of cases and to help save lives.

“What we are now warning against is complacency. We must continue to build on the fantastic commitment we have shown over recent weeks.

“I want to thank our entire local population for the sacrifices they have made – together we have made a real impact and have helped improve health outcomes for people in the area.”

The appeal comes in spite of a further easing of lockdown measures from next week including non-essential shops being allowed to reopen and groups of up to six people being able to meet in private outdoors.

However, the Government has also confirmed plans to enforce local lockdowns where necessary.

Hartlepool health team’s letter in full

To our fellow Hartlepudlians,

We – the staff at your local hospital – are calling on your continued support.

Since the outbreak of COVID-19, we have all worked with incredible commitment to keep our loved ones safe and protect the health service at a time of unprecedented pressure.

Following a rise in the number of cases in the area over recent days, we are calling on you all to join us in a renewed push to be vigilant.

Collectively, we have helped save lives. We have followed the government’s guidelines en-masse.

We have stayed at home. We have socially distanced. We have isolated ourselves from our friends and our loved ones during such a challenging time. We have put our lives on hold for the greater good.

The community spirit we have in Hartlepool is something which has always made us unique.

We are a town steeped in history and a real love and pride for the place we call home.

We have been overwhelmed by your love and support.

But we are calling on you all to keep this momentum going. Now is not the time to be complacent.

We know we can count on you to continue in this aim.

Thank you for your support.

Your Hartlepool health team

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