AN overwhelming number of readers have said they will not be participating in the Clap For Carers gesture, advocating instead for higher pay for NHS staff.

Readers were asked on Facebook if they would be participating in the event, now renamed Clap for Heroes, which has returned from the first lockdown.

Many said the gesture now was an ‘insult’ and ‘patronising’, and instead would show their support by staying indoors and following the rules for a Covid-safe community.

One reader said: “It’s not only the NHS, it’s also supermarket staff, banks and many other front-line workers.

“Don’t get me wrong , I think the NHS are doing an amazing job.

“They’re inspirational and hard-working, and yes they do need to be appreciated more.

“They’re exhausted. Please, people, not only for nhs staff but for everyone else - please stay at home.”

 

Other comments included:

“They need a pay rise and for everyone to follow the rules, it’s that simple.”

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“It's stupid and it's bloody cold outside!”

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“Frontline workers are clear in their ask. Stay home, don’t take risks and allow them to do their work. Nothing else. So that’s what we should be doing out of respect. How easy is that in comparison to their part in this?”

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“While I'm sure they appreciate the gesture, it goes against everything it is meant to stand for when people are gathering in crowds. Have some common sense! If you want to help the NHS, then maybe donate money instead so they can give people the care they need. Stay safe everyone. If you're going to clap, do it on your doorstep.”

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“It is an empty gesture, so no. Give all the key workers a pay rise. Not just the NHS, teachers are also heroes as are those in the shops keeping us stocked up with food.”

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“It’s a hollow gesture when you see the amount of people bending the rules.”

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“My wife, who is part of the NHS sees it as a hollow gesture. At the end of day, it’s so politicised it’s pretty much just a selfish act now to pretend like you've done something. Most NHS staff I’ve seen don't want this. Sign petitions and write to Mr Whittingdale about a pay rise, don't stand there stroking your ego at 8pm instead.”

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“Empty tokenism which I abhor. I think the NHS would be more appreciative if we spent as much time as we can at home adhering to the rules.”