A collaborative initiative to support Southern healthcare workers as they respond to increasing Covid-19 case numbers in the community has been formed by the Southern business community. 

Southern Heroes is a support network which provides a mechanism for local businesses and community groups to donate time to help out the health providers in the Southern district with non-clinical, non-contact tasks. 

The Southern Heroes helpers may be called on to fulfil a range of jobs, such as deliveries of food and supplies, supporting Southern District Health Board (SDHB) staff childcare facilities and manning call centres. 

Southern Heroes has been developed in partnership with the SDHB and in collaboration with the Wānaka, Queenstown and Southland Chambers of Commerce, and Volunteer South. 

“We realise that the business sector is also under immense strain, but for those who are able to, we want to rally businesses and communities in the south to support the heroes in our health system who are on the frontlines of this outbreak,” Business South chief executive Mike Collins said.

Southern Heroes helpers may be called on to fulfil a range of jobs to assist health services, from deliveries of food and supplies to supporting DHB staff childcare facilities.

“We’re asking that organisations spare even one person for one hour to help out and make a difference to our health workers and our local community. Any support you can provide, no matter how small, will be truly appreciated.” 

Tasks for participating Southern Heroes will be allocated in line with helpers’ skills and abilities, and in some cases subject to appropriate security checks. 

SDHB people and capability executive director Tanya Basel said the community support will help local health providers focus on what they do best. 

“The southern health system is much more than just the DHB – it is also our general practises, rural hospitals, pharmacies, primary health providers and aged residential care facilities,” she said.

“Joining the Southern Heroes network will support these services as they continue to provide care to our whānau and friends. We would value your support on the journey ahead.” 

Businesses and community groups interested in becoming part of the Southern Heroes network can sign up online here.

PHOTOS: Supplied