South Hams Hospital League of Friends has put out a call for help amid the coronavirus pandemic.

The hospital is expecting an exceptional increase in patient numbers over the coming weeks as a result of the covid-19 outbreak. This will put nurses and support staff under a great deal of pressure and anxiety at a time when sickness absence of their colleagues may be at a peak.

The SHHLOF are now appealing to members of the public who might be able to offer furnished accommodation for hospital staff on a short term basis; this could be unused holiday cottages or mobile homes.

Colin Pincombe, Chairman of South Hams Hospital League of Friends, said: "Use of holiday homes or rental accommodation would allow staff to continue work while not putting their families at risk.

"Without this facility, more staff may be forced to self-isolate and avoid attendance at work."

Mobile homes or caravans could also be used if near to the hospital or they could be relocated to the new carpark, which the League of Friends recently donated.

This accommodation would allow clinical staff to rest during or after extended shifts where the workload becomes excessive.

If you have accommodation available or know someone who does, please contact Ms Jo Lapthorn, Secretay of The Hospital League of Friends on 01548 560165 or by email on [email protected] or leave a message on the SHHLOF website here: www.shhlof.co.uk