For immediate publication

25 August 2017

Grenfell: CNWL staff at Notting Hill Carnival

CNWL staff will be out in force throughout Notting Hill Carnival.

Following a request for volunteers, over 70 put down their names to provide mental health support throughout the carnival duration.

Wearing distinctive bright orange NHS T-Shirts and advertising Health and Wellbeing Support #grenfellNHS, the team, which includes consultants, nurses, and occupational therapists, will be providing mental health first aid between 11am and 11pm throughout the Carnival period - Sunday, 27 August and Monday, 28 August.

The aim is to provide immediate help to those affected by the Grenfell Tower fire to any who ask for support.

The team will be visible throughout the area but be based in two locations.

These sites will provide a safe location for staff to reach out from and also for individuals who need it, to be seen in a safe space.

A carnival float will also be advertising our pop-up clinics and how people can get in touch. The banner says: "We really want you to contact us if you have a health worry. Talk to our outreach team (in NHS Tshirts) or follow #grenfellnhs to find out more".

It also directs people to our Facebook page: CNWLNHSFT.

CNWL Chief Executive Claire Murdoch said: "The NHS has seen hundreds and hundreds of hurt and distressed people from Grenfell. Many staff live in this community too so I'm not surprised that they want to be there and understand why so many have volunteered to provide NHS services for Grenfell at Carnival."