Battersea fashion student hands out care packages to NHS staff to thank them for hard work
A fashion design student from Battersea has launched a project to deliver care packages to NHS staff to give appreciation for their hard work during the pandemic.
Chimna Orji, 22, was inspired to act after hearing her mum and sister, who both work for the NHS, say they didn’t have time or the resources to practice self care.
She said: “People think of hospitals or three letters – N.H.S. But it’s made up of people like us, who do important, challenging work every day.
“You see on the news that they all have it so tough. They deserve to care for themselves too. They’re part of our community and it’s important to us to express our gratitude, directly, out loud.”
The care packages, which will be distributed in Wandsworth, contain items for healthcare workers to pamper themselves with such as face masks, herbal tea, lip balm and hand cream.
They also contain useful items, such as tissues and wipes.
Members of the public can also submit an encouraging and uplifting message of support and appreciation online to be included in the box.
The fashion student was also inspired by both the Clap for NHS started last year, as well as the widely criticised 1 per cent pay rise.
Chimna’s mum, Chikereuba Orji, 52, is a mental health therapist and her sister, Obiageli Orji, 29, is a junior doctor.
Chimna said: “Their hard work and dedication to their jobs gave me firsthand insight into how challenging it has been for NHS staff members across the UK.”
The project has been funded with money from Battersea Arts Centre’s Agency programme.
She is studying Fashion Design at Nottingham Trent University.
She is also preparing to launch her first sustainable bespoke streetwear brand which is driven by comfort and boldness.
To write your own message of support for healthcare workers visit: https://www.cognitoforms.com/TheOgbuCollective/theogbucollectivenhsmessage
Pictured top: Chimna Orji, with her mother Chikereuba and sister Obiageli