Fylde businessman raising money to award all NHS staff and care workers a People's Medal

Mark Mills, 49, from Wrea Green, is the director of Workplace people Solutions in Bolton, and aims to raise the money to make, distribute and award a medal of recognition to all care workers and NHS staff nationwide during the coronavirus pandemic.

A Crowdfunding page set up on Saturday April 18 has already reached £5270, and if the target is not reached all funds raised will go directly to NHS charities.

Mark said: "There needs to be a long-term recognition for these people who are putting their lives at risk every day.

"We need to be able to instantly recognise them, whether that be in a queue at the shops, or even just walking down the street, they deserve recognition from the public for the work they are doing.

"I'm sure there will be some sort of initiative like this from the Government, but I think it's important for us as people to remember what they are doing and give them the recognition they deserve."

Despite the "ambitious" fundraising goal of £5m, Mark said he was aware that he may not hit the target before the lockdown period ends, but was still hoping the public would make a donation to help him get one step closer to being able to award the medals.

"Rome wasn't built in a day, and this will be a long play," he continued.

"These medals aren't only for NHS workers, but for anyone working in care as well, because I think they can been slightly overlooked.

"They should all have something they can wear proudly, something for us to say 'you've played your part, you were there when we needed you, thank you for your efforts.'

"My business provides care workers, some of the stories we hear from them send shivers down your spine, and we may never know the worst parts of this crisis.

"I also want to be able to give something to the families who have lost loved ones whilst they were working on the front line to keep us all safe, and I think it's really powerful if that comes directly from the people they served.

"We're grateful for all donations, no matter how big or small, I know it's an ambitious amount but the money will go towards honouring NHS staff and care workers regardless of how much we raise."

To contribute towards the funds for People's Medals, visit Mark's fundraising page. A message from the Editor:

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