A WELLNESS room is being set up for staff at Chirk Community Hospital as they prepare to help fight against coronavirus.

The room will offer support for staff who may need it, and will offer the chance for them to spend some time relaxing during what has been a tough time for NHS workers.

Laura Rowlands, senior medical secretary at the hospital, believes it will provide a much-needed service in a difficult time.

“With everything going on at the moment, NHS workers are under a lot of pressure,” she explained.

“Although, as yet, we’re not fully involved with the fight against the virus yet, we are making things ready here in case we end up taking patients with COVID-19.

“There is a lot of strain and stress on the staff at the moment, at work and at home due to the lockdown, so the idea is really to create a space they can go to for extra support, or even just somewhere to have a few minutes to relax.

“In that area, we’re going to put mental health support contacts for them if they need the help.

“We wanted to make it a place they could be away from the hustle and bustle of what’s going on.”

Laura praised Betsi Cadwaladr for the support it has given staff, and said the room is likely to remain available for staff beyond the coronavirus situation.

The hospital is asking for children to send in drawings of rainbows and other bright creations which could lighten up the wellness room.

Laura added: “If children would like to send in some rainbow posters to brighten up the area, we would really appreciate that.

“We do think it would really help with motivation and morale.

“Staff are doing more than what they used to be doing and undergoing extra training, so they’re doing more in a different environment.

“It’s the same for all key workers.

“When you see the rainbows, teddies and thank you messages in people’s windows, it really helps.

“I think when staff are putting themselves at risk in times like this, it can be really tough, but seeing the appreciation from people makes it feel worth it.

“When people took part in the clap for the NHS, a lot of staff found it really emotional and supportive.”

The hospital will also accept donations of water bottles and snacks to be placed in the room for staff.