Clap for Carers: UK in ’emotional’ tribute to NHS and care workers

(BBC) – People around the UK have taken part in a “Clap for Carers” tribute, saluting NHS and care workers dealing with the coronavirus pandemic.

The Royal Family and the prime minister joined well-wishers who flocked to their balconies and windows to applaud.

A message from the NHS on social media described the tribute as “emotional”.

Meanwhile, firefighters have agreed to drive ambulances, deliver supplies and help to move bodies if needed to aid the UK response to the pandemic.

There are about 48,000 firefighters and control staff in the UK – but hundreds are already self-isolating because of coronavirus, the Fire Brigades Union said.

And the union is calling for tests to be made available quickly to its members to retain safe staffing levels.

On Thursday, the number of coronavirus deaths in the UK jumped by more than 100 in a day for the first time. The death toll has risen from 475 to 578, health officials said, with 11,658 confirmed cases.