Health board thanks people in North Wales for clap for carers support – but urges not to visit hospitals to take part

A health board has thanked people in North Wales for taking part in the weekly clap for carers – but has urged them not to travel to hospitals to get involved.

Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board is instead encouraging them to do it from home.

The claps for carers has become a regular event for many during the coronavirus lockdown to thank frontline workers.

Last week saw a large number of health staff and emergency service colleagues gather outside Wrexham Maelor Hospital to take part.

Although the move drew some criticism on social media, it should be remembered that it was held to pay tribute to the life of their colleague Andrew Treble, who sadly passed away after testing positive for COVID-19.

Health board officials said they were grateful for the support shown for the NHS and carers in recent weeks, describing it as “overwhelming”.

But they said it was important to maintain social distancing within hospital grounds.

A spokesperson said: “During these challenging times, this public display of support and recognition has meant so much to our staff.

“We do, however, need to make sure we are doing everything we can to stay safe and protect ourselves, our families and NHS services. To do this we would ask people to stay at home when they #ClapForCarers.

“We know emotions can run high at this time, especially amongst the family, friends and colleagues of people affected by COVID-19.

“However, we must make sure we can safely manage our hospital grounds for our patients, visitors and staff to maintain social distancing. We know this is the best way to prevent the spread of this virus.

“So once again we would like thank everyone for showing their continued support during these difficult times and ask people to #ClapForCarers from home.”

In a separate move, more historic sites will be lit up in support of the work done by the NHS and social care workers in Wales this week.