The past couple of weeks have seen the lives of healthcare workers change drastically, just as it has affected the lives of the global population. I have had the horror of witnessing the strain it has put on all staff first hand whilst myself working as a doctor in intensive care.  

What initially was an amusing infographic from the CDC (CDC Facial Hair Mask Advice) has become our reality. Alongside my friends and colleagues the constant need to wear respirators or face masks and the worrying figures of infection among healthcare workers has driven us to shaving clean in adherence to this advice. We have had the thought that perhaps we could raise some money for the NHS, its workers and volunteers during these terribly trying times.

The idea is simple: Willing healthcare workers shave their facial hair growing a moustache which is respirator compliant. We similarly encourage the public to join us in solidarity - the social distancing in place means that concerns of your public appearance are no longer valid!

We are aiming to raise funds which will be granted to 140 NHS charities supporting front line NHS workforce in weekly grants. The grants will be spent quickly on enhancing the well-being of NHS Staff and Volunteers caring for COVID-19 patients, such as:

· Funding well-being packs/gifts for staff and volunteers on wards/departments (this could include food deliveries, high energy protein bars/drinks, snacks, refreshments, wash kits, overnight stay kits.)

· Cost of travel, parking, accommodation for staff and volunteers

· Volunteer expenses

· Other items and needs to support well-being of NHS staff and volunteers who are experiencing increases stress and workload due to COVID-19