A CAMPAIGN backed by the Daily Echo to help support the NHS has raised more than £33k.

A total of £33,129 has been raised by the public to support NHS staff who work at University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust (UHS).

The money has enable organisers to fund wellness packages with hand creams, food supplies and mental health support information.

They have also ordered coffee machines to be distributed across the hospital sites and are in the process of securing milk, refreshments and paper deliveries which is especially important now that many of the shops and restaurants have closed on site.

In a video message sent to the Daily Echo, UHS Interim Co-Director, Jeneen Thomsen, said: "I'm absolutely delighted to have the opportunity to thank you on behalf of everyone at the charity and University Hospital Southampton for all your support that you have given up over the last few weeks to ensure that staff at the hospital are receiving everything that they need to help support them in these difficult times.

"Thank you so much."

However, there is still so much more that is needed.

Organisers still need iPads for the Occupational Health colleagues enabling them to do interactive sessions with staff whilst remaining off site.

They are also hoping to get tablets for UHS staff so that they can connect safely with loved ones at home whilst working long shifts or isolating themselves.

Campaign organisers have also identified a safe space for staff but the room needs remodelling in order to support their needs.

It comes after the Daily Echo backed a Southampton Hospitals Charity campaign for help following an increased demand for services and frontline staff at UHS due to the coronavirus pandemic.

IT forms part of the Daily Echo #ThereWithYou to support residents and commit to shine a light on unsung heroes in our community.

To donate visit www.southamptonhospitalscharity.org/NHSheroes or text NHSHEROES 3 to 70460 to donate £3; NHSHEROES 5 to 70460 to donate £5; NHSHEROES 10 to 70460 to donate £10.