NHS staff urge support for Jamaican communities

Christopher Innerarity (left) and Linford Davis

“As the Jamaican motto says, “Out of many, one people”.

Reverend Linford Davis, Head of Spiritual, Pastoral and Religious Care, at The Royal Wolverhampton and Walsall Healthcare NHS Trusts has not yet been able to get in touch with members of his family caught up in Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica.

He said: “The hurricane struck and left damage and disconnection in its wake.

“The challenge of being unable to contact family is still a present reality, for some. But our hope remains intact, when the dust has settled, we will still be standing, a determined and blessed people, we stand together.”

Many staff across the NHS are of Jamaican heritage and have been anxiously trying to make contact with loved ones in the aftermath of the hurricane.

Christopher Innerarity, Pharmacy Directorate Manager, at The Royal Wolverhampton NHs Trust said: “There is no one in Jamaica or parts of the island that is untouched.  It is truly devastating across the island.  Saint Elizabeth, our breadbasket in Jamaica, has seen the greatest impact of Hurricane Melissa.

“Two schools and hospitals have lost their roofs along with numerous families misplaced and now homeless due to the extensive damages to their properties.

“We need all the support we can get for the people as we start the response operation.

“I am still trying desperately to reconnect with some of my family members on the island, the signals and lack of electricity is making things so hard.

“It is a task to rebuild. From our past experiences, we will rebuild and use the expertise along with our many partnerships to overcome in this challenging time. The support of the Diaspora and friends of Jamaica is critical to this process.”

Communities who want to help those affected can visit the British Red Cross or Support Jamaica websites.