It is now a year since the UK went into its first lockdown, with citizens told to stay home to protect the NHS from being overwhelmed by the growing cases of Covid-19. 2020-21 was an exceptional year for health and social care staff across Humber, Coast and Vale.
Stephen Eames, Independent Chair and Lead for Humber, Coast and Vale Health and Care Partnership spoke about his experiences of the past year and his views on the impact on the wider NHS, as well as what he looks forward to in the coming months.
How do you think Covid-19 will impact the NHS in 2021 and beyond?
We will be facing the biggest challenge in the 72 year history of the NHS as we restore services and continue to battle the pandemic and its consequences.
What do you think we have learned from the NHS’s response to the pandemic?
How brilliant our people are and what a tremendous job they have done for patients and communities across Humber Coast and Vale.
Has 2020 changed the way you work. If so, how?
Massively ! All the time on teams and other video link systems, no time on the road and not enough time interacting with people. I’m missing the human contact.
What excites you about the coming year?
The opportunity to use what we have learned throughout the pandemic to make a difference to people’s lives.
What are you determined to do less of, professionally, than you did in 2020?
Working from home.
What do you think you’ll do more of in 2021 than ever before – when restrictions are no longer in place?
Exercise and family time!
Which activity or destination are you most keen to do or visit later in 2021 and why?
Spend time with my Mum who has been on her own for a year.