Commemorative keepsake in a sleeve with the words 'Compassion and Courage' given to staff of Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust in recognition of their work during the COVID-19 pandemic, with a letter signed by Dame Linda Pollard Chair, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust and Julian Hartley, Chief Executive, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust and an additional day of annual leave around staff birthdays, produced by Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, 2021

Underneath the badge with the coat of arms of the city of Leeds with two owls and the NHS logo it reads this “commemorates the huge sacrifices you have made during the pandemic to not only are for our patients, but to care for each other and to our keep out communities safe, at all times, exemplifying the values of The Leeds Way.” Launched in 2014, these five guiding staff principles are being patient centred, fair, collaborative, accountable and empowered.

The letter acknowledges some of the challenges of adapting to new ways of working and learning new roles. Some people were redeployed as ICUs (Intensive Care Units) and COVID wards swelled to treat growing numbers of people. Many people worked additional days and extremely long hours to provide care. Estates, administrative and logistics teams ensured supplies of equipment and resources. NHS staff, including chaplains, also became a link between people and their loved ones when hospital visiting was restricted. Cleaners, porters, and catering staff have played an essential role in helping NHS hospitals to run.