Kate says 'extraordinary' work of those on NHS frontline during coronavirus crisis will see stature soar

The Duchess of Cambridge has said the “extraordinary job” NHS staff and other frontline workers are doing will “dramatically change” how we value them in the future.

Kate said the higher status of doctors, nurses, care home workers, and others will be “one of the main positives” to come out of the coronavirus crisis.

Her comments came during an interview with the BBC, and William offered advice about maintaining good mental health saying “staying connected, staying positive and being able to talk to friends and family is so crucial”.

When the duchess was asked whether the Covid-19 outbreak would fundamentally change who we are and what we value, she replied: “Yes absolutely.

“I think what we’re seeing now is the NHS and the frontline workers are doing the most extraordinary job and that’s really come to the forefront in the last few weeks.

“And I think it’s going to dramatically change how we all value and see our frontline workers and I think that is one of the main positives that you can take from this.

“They do an extraordinary job, it goes unrecognised daily and now I think all of us as a nation can really see how hard they work and how vital their work is.”

The interview comes as it was revaled The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge tell the nation “we’re in this together” in a video aimed at supporting the country’s mental wellbeing during the coronavirus outbreak.

William and Kate sympathise with those in lockdown, with the duke saying: “It’s not always easy. We can feel frustrated, miss loved ones or get anxious.”

The Cambridges, who have made mental health campaigning a major part of their public work, have narrated a video, due for release on national TV on Monday, which will highlight new advice on Public Health England’s (PHE) Every Mind Matters website.

PHE has launched new guidance after the Office for National Statistics Opinions and Lifestyle Survey, which aims to understand the impact of the outbreak on British society, found 84% of those questioned worried about the effect the pandemic is having on their lives.

With just over half saying it was affecting their wellbeing.

The range of new resources include a tailored Covid-19 mind plan, and support for specific mental wellbeing issues like anxiety, stress, low mood and trouble sleeping.

The website signposts people to activities such as mindful breathing exercises, help “reframing” unhelpful thoughts, and muscle relaxation.

As images of deserted streets are shown, then carers being clapped by the nation, William says in the video: “All over the country people are staying at home to protect the NHS and save lives.

“It’s not always easy. We can feel frustrated, miss loved ones or get anxious.”

Kate takes over to say: “So now, more than ever, Every Mind Matters. There are things we can all do to look after our mental wellbeing at this time.”

The duke adds: “Every Mind Matters can help get you started with your NHS online plan. Showing you simple steps to help deal with stress, boost your mood and feel on top of things.”

The duchess says: “Search Every Mind Matters to get your action plan today,” and the couple say the final words together “We’re in this together”.

Alongside the new mental health support, Every Mind Matters encourages people to complete a personal Mind Plan, a quick and free interactive tool offering tailored mental wellbeing advice.

The NHS-endorsed content has been developed in partnership with clinicians, academics and leading mental health charities and social enterprises including Mind, Mental Health Foundation, Samaritans, Rethink and Mental Health First Aid England.

Baking star Nadiya Hussain said communicating with her friends and family helps her cope: “For me, reaching out to people, talking to my loved ones, helps manage it.”

While England footballer Jesse Lingard said: “I’m doing yoga twice a week at home to look after my mental health. Speaking to my family on a regular basis is also really helpful as they give me support and make me feel connected.”

Coronavirus: Everything you need to know

Health Secretary Matt Hancock, who completed self-isolation after contracting Covid-19, said: “It’s vital that we all look after our mental health in these challenging times, so today we are launching new guidance on the NHS Every Mind Matters website which is tailored to help people deal with this outbreak through practical tips and advice.

“Whether it’s through exercise, keeping to a routine, or trying something new – there is so much we can do to keep our minds healthy and prevent issues becoming more serious – and I’d encourage everyone to take advantage of this brilliant resource.”

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