A memorial tree has been planted at Fairfield General Hospital as part of a "moving" ceremony to remember healthcare workers who have taken their own lives.

The Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust is the first trust in the North West to commit to planting trees on every hospital site as part of the National Memorial Tree Campaign.

The campaign is led by medical mental health charity Doctors in Distress in association with its patron, BAFTA winner and former NHS doctor Adam Kay.

Alongside honouring the memory of healthcare professionals, the campaign highlights the trust's commitment to protecting their colleague’s mental health and well-being.

Statistics show that in the UK, a doctor takes their own life every three weeks, and a nurse takes their own life every week.

The ceremony, which took place next to the Fairfield Education Centre, was attended by staff and governors from Bury Care Organisation, as well as Doctors in Distress chief executive, Ann Paul.

Ian Inglis and Osman Saeed Dar from the chaplaincy shared some inspiring words about the symbolism of the trees, with Osman sharing a poem he had written.

Governance manager Craig Wood said: “The event was very moving, and I am honoured to be able to help provide a focal point for people to remember those we have lost and a beacon of hope to those in times of need.

“Working with Doctors in Distress will provide vital support to all our colleagues who may find themselves in a dark place, I hope the tree is a small symbol of that.”

The trust planted the first tree at Rochdale Infirmary in May and plan to plant further memorial trees at the Royal Oldham Hospital and Salford Royal this summer. 

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