Staff at our hospitals - Barnet Hospital, Chase Farm Hospital and the Royal Free Hospital - are facing the biggest challenge of their lives. Many of them will be caring for patients with (COVID-19) coronavirus. Others will need to look after patients who dont have the virus but still desperately need their help. This huge challenge is set to become even greater over the coming weeks and months, as the number requiring urgent care continues to rise.

This care is only possible because of the dedication and professionalism of our incredible 10,000-strong workforce, made up of clinical and support staff. With resources stretched to the limit, they are working under the most extreme pressure, and in the most challenging of circumstances. Every person on our team - from the doctors and nurses to the porters, cleaners and support staff, is playing a vital role in being there for others during this emergency.

Staff have told us what they need to help them work more effectively and to make life a little more bearable. Much of this will be funded by the government, but not everything. We are asking you now for your urgent help to support them, showing how much we care about them, as they care for our loved ones. We know their lives will be turned upside down, as they work long hours and face great personal sacrifice to win this battle on our behalf.

Please play your part during this critical period and kindly donate whatever you can. Every penny will make a real difference to the lives of our local heroes; from the provision of care packages at the end of a very long shift, to psychological support and the creation of physical respite spaces for them to connect with their families. Your support will be used to give them what they have asked for and what they need.

And we will ensure you hear how your generosity is helping, keeping you closely updated on the progress of our appeal and the tangible difference you are making.

Thank you for your support and for playing a vital role in supporting your local NHS heroes.

Please note that any surplus funds from the COVID-19 appeal will be used to support staff across the Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust.