Two ‘first class lounges’ run by aircrew provided a space for staff in need of respite to relax, away from the stresses of the frontline.
Project Wingman was set-up by furloughed pilots, cabin crew and ground staff from a number of airlines to help support NHS workers dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic.
Around 30 volunteer crew members were on-hand every day to give our staff taking rest breaks the chance to unwind and chat. Having been trained in compassionate listening and stress reduction techniques, the pilots and cabin crew were able to offer friendly support and advice for managing stressful and pressurised situations.
Eamon Green, a senior first officer, said: "Project Wingman is an opportunity for us to give back to fellow uniformed professionals at this critical time. There has been a really positive response from staff who may need that extra sense of appreciation. As a former patient of Harefield Hospital, I have a personal attachment to the site and I am delighted to be back to support the staff who helped me."
Critical care matrons Ciara Collins and Ellen Dunthorne confirmed just how much that support was welcomed by staff.
“It was lovely to have a comfortable space to relax away from the Covid madness, the team enjoyed being looked after,” said Ciara.
“Project Wingman was incredibly important for the intensive care team as it gave them somewhere to go for some time out of the unit where they could relax and wind down out of PPE. Everyone felt very spoilt being served tea and having some desperately needed TLC!” said Ellen.
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