Secret garden haven for NHS heroes at Derriford

Teams treating Covid-19 patients will be able to step into a secret flower garden at University Hospitals Plymouth after flowers were donated that were destined for the now cancelled Chelsea Flower Show.

Volunteers, coordinated by Intensive Care Specialist Sister Sister Kate Tantam, transformed a courtyard near to the Intensive Care Unit. 

Kate said: “The PPE staff are wearing is very hot, and they are working in scrubs, so this will be a haven where people can step out for some quiet reflection and to cool down. I cannot give my colleagues a hug, but these flowers will.”

Teams at the Trust and across the city have been pulling together to coordinate planning efforts for tackling the pandemic, whilst also building upon the psychological support for staff.

Trust Chief Executive, Ann James, said: “I want to thank you all for your incredible hard work over recent days. More than ever we are #1BigTeam and as always I will do my very best to be here for you, to get the hospital ready and to support our many colleagues across health and care.”

Local businesses, charitable organisations and individuals have come forward with offers of help to support staff. Frances Hannon, coordinating the influx of donations, said: “We are extremely grateful for the deliveries of gifts and food and support. However, distribution and collection of gifts is a potential risk to staff and the public in itself, so please email to check first.”

If you want to volunteer or offer discounts on products or services to UHP staff, please email plh-tr.hrcontrolcentre@nhs.net.