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Incredible show of unity from frontline workers outside BRI
Dozens of doctors, nurses, paramedics, fire fighters and police gathered outside the BRI on Thursday evening for a rousing round of applause.
Sirens blared, horns beeped and the sound of clapping filled the air at 8pm for the weekly ‘clap for carers’ event.
Staff who had finished their shifts at both the BRI and the Children’s Hospital joined forces with colleagues in the emergency services for the incredible show of unity.
is needed now More than ever
On the opposite side of the road from the hospital, police cars had parked up and officers stood to applaud the NHS staff, who in turn were also applauding.
The large gathering has also been criticised, however, for the lack of social distancing shown by many of those taking part.
Casie Dixon, who works for the ambulance service, responded to the online condemnation, saying that “98 per cent of people featured in the clip are ambulance / hospital / public service staff who have absolutely no option but to work this close with each other and those who are ill every single day”.
She said: “We cannot stay at home and social distance. We are those out when you are not, saving the lives of those you care for. We deserve to be able to stand together and be proud of what we do day in day out.”
Photo and video by Martin Booth
Read more: 12,000 Easter eggs donated for staff and patients at Southmead Hospital
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