Overwhelming response from people in Hastings and Rother to support NHS staff at Conquest

Louise Telford, who works at the Conquest as a housekeeper, launched the appeal on Facebook with friends Shelley White and Kelly Bird after hearing first hand what was needed by front-line staff to make their shifts more bearable.

They received donations and items worth £6,000 just days after launching the plea on social media.

Louise said: “The response has been overwhelming. We have had around £6,000 of donations in less than a week.

“I did the same thing during the first lockdown and people were so generous, donating Easter Eggs at Easter and even a coffee machine. I wasn’t really expecting the same response but it has really escalated.

“Businesses have been very supportive. We are organising a tombola and already have more than £2,000 worth of prizes. It has meant we have so far been able to put together 100 hampers for staff. I feel so grateful and humble.

“I work at the Conquest so you hear from staff what they need to help them get through the shifts.

“The Conquest is playing its part and has allocated £50,000 to ensure all staff have two hot meals a day.

“The community really want to do something to help but are not sure what to do. This has given them a focus.

“Obviously the hospital doesn’t want the footfall and people turning up to deliver things so this is a way of co-ordinating it. Everything will be delivered safely using the correct procedures.

“It is a way of boosting morale, of the public giving hospital staff the equivalent of a big hug.

“Colemans construction team donated £500 and another local businessman has pledged to donate up to £1,000 or the equivalent in items.

“Another local lady Zoe Ward has been rounding up friends and family to help,”

Other businesses which have helped and contributed include, Hastings Kickboxing Academy, Penn Fabrications, Boots, Morrisons, The Bull Inn, The Old Market, Jamisons, Sugar Crush and Superstitch.

Items being provided to NHS staff include lip balm, mints, which help when wearing a mask for a shift, bottles of water and hand creams.

Louise added: “My aim is to provide a care package to every staff member, starting at the Conquest then the DGH at Eastbourne, which is more than 7,000 staff in total.”

If you would like to help and get involved or take part in the tombola, email [email protected].

See also: Award winning Hastings baker returns to kitchen during lockdown