The Archbishop of Southwark, the Most Reverend John Wilson, looked to a lasting expression of gratitude and thanks to NHS and care staff who have battled COVID-19 over recent months. That approach, he said, would involve upholding the dignity of workers and resourcing healthcare for the long-term:
"Our gratitude has been expressed in some powerfully poignant ways: households out clapping on our streets; messages of support; posters and signs of appreciation. But our thanks ring hollow if we fail to value our NHS, emergency, and social care staff in ways that are tangible and enduring. Making sure they are properly funded and resourced, and treated with dignity and respect, these are the real ways we can say ‘thank you.’ We are so grateful for everyone’s contribution, not forgetting those from other countries who help ensure our hospitals, clinics, surgeries and care facilities are fit for purpose."
Archbishop Wilson was preaching at a special Mass in St George's Cathedral for the sick and their families, as well as NHS front-line workers and those working in Social Care.
