Hospital workers thank team who set up pop-up shop to help them through pandemic

A pop-up shop was set up by Cafe Wilbers at the University Hospital of Hartlepool so health workers and other NHS staff could buy fresh fruit and vegetables at the end of their shifts without having to make a trip to the shops.

While others had to shut, the cafe has remained open throughout the covid-19 crisis so it could provide drinks and snacks to key workers and visitors to the hospital.

The team in the hospital’s assisted reproduction unit have now bought the workers who have kept the service going some flowers and chocolates as a token of their appreciation and thanks, and have praised their professional and friendly service.

Debbie Hanley, healthcare assistant in the assisted reproduction unit, said: “Throughout this whole period the team in catering have been performing an amazing role, day in day out, for staff and for visitors.

“They have always provided a first class, professional and friendly service at a time when people needed it the most.

“The new pop-up shop has also provided an easy and convenient way for staff to collect all of their essential items before they go home.

“We wanted to let them know how much we appreciate them for everything they have done at such a challenging time."

She added: “The flowers and chocolates are our small way of saying a huge thank you from everyone in the assisted reproduction unit and the whole of the hospital.”