“The coronavirus pandemic is affecting a lot of our members, either emotionally or practically,” said director of operations, Simone Moore. “We have connected people to local support groups who can help them to get food, we have summarised news briefings for people who cannot access that information and we have talked to people who are finding isolation and the increased anxiety all too much to deal with. We have also taught people how to use video calls and accessible technology to keep in touch with their family, which is very rewarding to see! We know that there are a lot more people out there who are affected by sight and hearing loss, who are facing the same challenges as our members.”

The helpline is also now available to people who have reduced sight and hearing as a result of, or since, serving in the Armed Forces and to people who are supported by smaller sensory loss charities that may not have such provisions.

It’s also straight-forward: simply request an approved FREEPOST bag from the Think Inks website: www.inksnhs.com. This will be sent to your address. Fill the bag with your empty cartridges (two to 10 cartridges are permitted in each bag) to recycle. The bag can be posted in any post box, for free. No direct contact with others is required.

NHS Charities Together COVID-19 Urgent Appeal provides emergency funds for a variety of initiatives to help NHS staff, volunteers and patients. These include: well-being packs/gifts of refreshments/wash-kits; temporary accommodation; parking costs; volunteer expenses; food deliveries; electronic communication devices to help patients in isolation stay connected to their family and friends to assist during the current crisis.

Ellie Orton, chief executive of NHS Charities Together said, “We are truly impressed with the sheer volume of support we are receiving and this innovative Think Inks campaign, that not only helps those wonderful NHS staff and the volunteers working day and night to save lives at a time of critical importance for us all, but is also healthier for our planet.”