Health and care leaders issue big “thank you” to dedicated workforce

Leaders of the Bath and North East Somerset, Wiltshire and Swindon (BSW) Partnership have issued a big “thank you” to the dedicated staff from all partner organisations who have worked so hard during what has been one of the most challenging winter seasons on record.

Stephanie Elsy, Chair designate of the BSW Partnership said the BSW workforce and volunteers in local hospitals, GP surgeries, social care services, community and mental health services have withstood wave after wave of pressure and she had been impressed by their selfless dedication and the way people have worked together.

“Their commitment to caring for and helping local people has been at the very heart of our response to Covid and winter pressures. The high quality and compassionate care provided and the steadfast provision of services in the face of rising Covid infections and staff absence is something of which we should all be very proud.”

The hard work of staff from all partner organisations has been central to the joined up response to winter pressures from health and care partners across BSW.

And the joined-up approach to work has seen different partners work together more closely than ever before to help solve big problems such as hospital bed shortages and driving up Covid vaccination rates among seldom heard communities.

Chief Executive designate of the BSW Integrated Care Board Sue Harriman, who was appointed in November, added her own thank you to staff and said it was important that everyone takes time to look after themselves over the coming weeks as pressures remain in place.

“January and February have always been a difficult period for our health and care services and this year has been no exception. I know many colleagues have had a difficult time over the past few months but have persevered and worked harder as the pressures have mounted.

I would like to thank everyone who has worked so hard over this challenging winter period but also to remind everyone how important it is to look after yourself.”