The Telegraph
Harry hopes NHS and Invictus Games families can learn from each other
The Duke of Sussex hopes his Invictus Games and the NHS can find ‘strength, compassion and understanding’ from shared experiences as a new project in support of health workers is launched. Harry is a patron of the Invictus Games Foundation who has worked with the NHS to provide guidance on supporting the physical, mental and social well-being of medical workers and other staff during and after the pandemic. The advice is in the form of six podcasts on a range of topics designed to inspire and support NHS workers, and is based on lessons learned by the Invictus community during its recovery. The foundation oversees the delivery of the Invictus Games, founded by Harry, to injured, sick and wounded veterans and military servicemen. Harry said: “NHS workers have been embroiled in a new kind of struggle for a year now.” “This service and sacrifice resonates deeply with so many people in the military community.” With this ongoing project, we know that the NHS and Invictus communities will learn from each other, support each other and lead conversations from which everyone can draw. “From these shared experiences, I hope people can find strength, compassion and understanding, and the inspiration they need for their own recovery and resilience.” The Invictus Games were to be hosted in the Netherlands this summer, but were postponed for another year due to the coronavirus pandemic. The first podcast will be released Thursday and features Glenn Haughton, the champion of mental health, and talks again about contact with the family. Prerana Issar, Chief Executive Officer of NHS England and NHS Improvement, said: ‘This partnership provides practical support to complement the already extensive assistance available to our hard-working mental health emergency staff exclusively for NHS workers to access health and wellness programs that have benefited thousands of people. ‘