'MOVID19' gives critical boost for frontline NHS staff

Zak Cole-Healy, a Surgical Doctor, is one of the founders of the Movid-19 movement

Vital funding for NHS staff and volunteers is growing as fast as the moustaches of men across the UK, as a Surgical Doctor in Greater Manchester and friends kickstart a new ‘MOVID-19’ initiative.

The fundraising challenge follows NHS guidance recommending specific facial-hair maintenance to ensure COVID-19 masks fit properly.

The campaign has grown rapidly as members have raised more than £15,000 for the NHS Charities Together Urgent Covid Appeal already.

The friends, several of whom are NHS workers themselves, felt the situation – which forbids beards but allows ‘well groomed’ moustaches – was the perfect opportunity to encourage people to show solidarity with frontline NHS staff and volunteers working day and night to protect people against Covid-19, by growing, drawing or sticking on a Mo.

It follows the alleged issue of a poster by the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the US showing 36 different kinds of facial hair and whether each style is compatible with a facepiece respirator or not.

Zak Cole-Healy, aged 30, a Surgical Doctor in Greater Manchester and one of the founders of the Movid-19 movement, said: “I think a lot of people are sitting at home, watching this terrible situation unfold but feel a bit helpless to support in a meaningful way.

"Well growing, drawing or sticking on a mo is the answer – it’s something anybody can do, especially whilst in lockdown and not facing judgement from the outside world!

“Working in hospital during the Covid-19 crisis, the tireless work of NHS staff and volunteers is plain to see.

"We started this campaign so that anybody can support NHS workers in their own, moustache-shaped, way and we want as many people as possible to get involved.

"By joining the Movid-19 team or donating to our members you’ll boost morale and raise vital funds for the thousands of staff working tirelessly to save lives.”

The campaign is raising money for the NHS Charities Together urgent covid appeal.

This ring-fenced fund supports NHS workers directly, funding mental health support, accommodation and other wellbeing initiatives for the staff and volunteers keeping us safe.

To get inspired with the latest Mo-pics visit the Official_Movid_19 Instagram, Facebook, or for updates on the movement, to join the team, or donate to your favourite Movid-19 member, visit the Movid-19 Just Giving page. 

Emergency workers must follow their local guidance and ensure facial hair doesn’t affect the fit of their masks.

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