#OneMillionClaps appeal for health service heroes launches
14 April 2020
Today, a major appeal has been launched to raise millions of pounds in support of NHS nurses, doctors, staff and volunteers who are saving lives across the UK during the coronavirus pandemic.
Today, a major appeal has been launched to raise millions of pounds in support of NHS nurses, doctors, staff and volunteers who are saving lives across the UK during the coronavirus pandemic.
The campaign aims to inspire at least one million people to demonstrate their support for the NHS by texting a “clap” alongside a message of encouragement and a £5 donation. Among the NHS charities benefiting from this initiative is CW+, the charity supporting Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust.
The #OneMillionClaps campaign is set to be launched on ITV, potentially during Good Morning Britain, with millions expected to step onto their doorsteps once again at 8pm to applaud NHS staff and show their appreciation for those risking their lives on the frontlines.
A short film featuring NHS staff and members of the public from across the UK has been produced to promote the appeal. The film, narrated by David Walliams, features a special rendition of the Queen classic We Will Rock You with new lyrics: “NHS, we love you. We say, we say, thank you.”
The appeal is being coordinated by NHS Charities Together, with 100% of each £5 donation directed to the COVID-19 Urgent Appeal. These funds will be distributed to member charities to provide vital supplies and support for NHS staff and volunteers, including food, travel, accommodation and counselling.
Messages of support will be forwarded to the appropriate NHS charity associated with each donor's local hospital. These messages will be displayed on whiteboards, chalkboards, available screens and noticeboards around hospital sites, as well as shared through social media and internal NHS communications channels. This will ensure that frontline NHS staff and volunteers can see the messages of encouragement as they arrive for and depart from their shifts.
Additionally, donors who opt in to receive communications from their local hospital charity will have their details shared with NHS charities. These details will be added to the respective charity's donor database and used for future communications, in accordance with GDPR and ethical fundraising practices.