Staff at Staffordshire's largest hospital can now access new rest areas thanks to the generosity of the local community and businesses.

UHNM Charity has funded two temporary rest areas at the Royal Stoke University Hospital, providing staff with a tranquil area to relax and escape the busy demands of clinical life.

The two temporary units, installed outside the hospital's Main Atrium and Trent Building, are kitted out with socially distanced comfortable chairs and tables and be partitioned to ensure to limit the spread of Covid-19.

Staff using the facilities will be able to watch television and make use of the vending machine as well take a well-earned break in comfortable surroundings.

The rest areas were officially opened by Dr Bryan Carr, a longstanding Critical Care Consultant.

Lisa Thomson, Director of Communications and UHNM Charity, said: "I am delighted that UHNM Charity has been able to fund the opening of these essential areas for our staff who are working tirelessly in challenging circumstances.

"We are grateful to our staff, local communities and businesses who donated and fundraised for our Staff Wellbeing Appeal last year and to Denise Coates Foundation for their generosity."

Works were also funded by a grant from NHS Charities Together Covid-19 appeal.

Additional facilities at Royal Stoke will open next month, with plans in place to redevelop existing rest areas at County Hospital in Stafford.

Ro Vaughan, UHNM Director of Human Resources, added: "We received feedback from staff during the first wave that we had limited space for staff to take a break due to social distancing.

"It is vital our staff have the space and opportunity to switch off and rest, especially while they are working as hard as they are during the current pandemic. I am sure these areas, together with further facilities as they open will be very popular."

If you would like to fundraise for UHNM Charity click here for more information, or call 01782 676444 to speak to one of the UHNM Charity team.