Blog
Our Chief Executive: Putting our patients first
We want the BHF to be your support system, whenever you need us (stock photo)
At the very heart of the British Heart Foundation are the 7.4 million people living with heart and circulatory diseases in the UK. They are the reason for everything we do, from funding life saving research, to working with patients and the public to provide better health and care.During these turbulent times, it is more important than ever that we put patients, and their needs, first - especially as information to date suggests those with heart and circulatory conditions are at increased risk of severe illness if they develop Covid-19.
That is why we have launched our Patients First programme - the BHF’s number one organisational priority in response to the pandemic.
We're listening
First, we are listening to what our supporters want, and using their insight to shape what we offer to fill any unmet need. As a result, we’ve developed a fantastic suite of support services.
In response to receiving more than double the usual number of calls and emails to our specialist nurses on our Heart Helpline, we have taken steps to expand our service. We’re making it easier for people to have access to the support they need – whether practical, or emotional - by extending our opening hours.
Expanding our service will also help our nurses better manage the volume of calls we are receiving – up to 400 calls per day at the peak of enquiries. They really are just a phone call away from helping you, or a loved one.
Support is here
What’s more, we understand people want access to accurate and relevant resources for their individual circumstances. Whether they need answers about being classified as at increased risk from coronavirus, seek tips for keeping active, or want to access our online cardiac rehabilitation resources, we’ve done our very best to cover all bases with our comprehensive online offering.
Our coronavirus web pages have been visited more than 1.1 million times since early March, and we want to make it as easy as possible for anyone to access them. That is why we’ve developed an enhanced coronavirus information and support hub, open to all. Teams across the BHF have really rallied to create this new platform, and I’m so proud of how everyone has worked resourcefully and collaboratively to help our supporters when they need it most.
Seek help
Dr Charmaine Griffiths, our Chief Executive
Coronavirus is extremely serious, and it is correct that the country’s efforts are focused on fighting this devastating disease at this time. However, we know heart attacks don’t stop for a global pandemic, so we are also working closely with the Government to urge everyone to seek medical assistance for symptoms of heart attack, stroke and other heart and circulatory diseases.
These are extraordinary times, and like everyone, we’re carrying on as best as we can by adapting to these highly unusual circumstances. What hasn’t changed is that the BHF will continue to be a place that anyone can turn to for help and guidance, both now and long into the future.
Please be assured that we’re here for you in these difficult times, and we always will be.