NHS 'one million claps' campaign launched to raise £5m to support staff amid coronavirus crisis

A "one million claps" campaign aiming to raise at least £5 million for NHS workers amid the coronavirus crisis launches today.

The appeal coincides with swathes of the public planning to "clap for our carers" once again tonight.

The new clapping appeal, being promoted with the hashtag #OneMillionClaps, aims to encourage at least one million people to donate £5 each.

This money will be used to support NHS staff and volunteers with food, travel and accommodation as well as counselling.

Ellie Orton, Chief Executive of NHS Charities Together said: “Like everyone else I’ve been incredibly moved by the millions of us showing our public support for our health service over the last two Thursday evenings.

"I really hope #OneMillionClaps inspires those who can to give a donation that will make a real difference to the amazing staff and volunteers who are daily saving lives and battling against this horrible virus on our behalf.”

She said NHS workers "desperately need" support, adding: “Thousands of staff are risking their lives every day for us and many of them are now sick themselves or at breaking point. If we can raise £5 million tonight, it will go a long way to providing them and their families with the support they so desperately need.”

Comedian and writer David Walliams has voiced a video appeal for the campaign, while a reworking of Queen's "We Will Rock You" to the "We Say Thank You" has been recorded for the appeal.

Those wishing to donate £5 can do so by texting "clap" to 70507.

The clap for our carers initiative was launched last month and saw huge numbers going to their front doors or windows and applauding care workers and volunteers.