HEALTH bosses have issued a rallying cry for people with specialist skills to apply for temporary positions at Arrowe Park and Clatterbridge Hospitals during the coronavirus outbreak.

It follows a call from Wirral University Teaching Hospital for volunteers last week, which has already seen 243 applicants.

A spokesperson for the trust said: "These vital roles will support the Trust’s day-to-day activities, ensuring NHS staff are able to carry out their frontline duties during the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic.

"Amongst some of the skills being sought are counselling, catering, call-handling and customer service experience.

"The roles will not compromise strict government advice on self-isolation and social distancing. Therefore, people who have been advised to shield themselves should not offer support."

Details of those who cannot be considered for volunteering are listed on the Public Health England website.

Helen Marks, director of workforce, said: "Coronavirus is the biggest challenge we have ever faced, and the support of the public is more important to us than ever.

"I'd like to say a huge thank you to all of those who have already applied for volunteer roles. Your generosity and kindness will make a huge difference.

"In addition to volunteer roles, we have a range of temporary paid positions for people with specialist skills.

"These may suit those skilled people who are not currently in work.

"Your NHS needs you, and your support will be invaluable in helping our frontline staff carry out their duties at this incredibly busy time."

For more information on volunteering or temporary roles at Wirral University Teaching Hospital contact wih-tr.volunteering@nhs.net or call 0151 482 7788.

Those who have applied for the national NHS Volunteer Responder scheme – which has recruited 750,000 people nationwide – can also apply for roles to support Wirral hospitals.