Waitrose and John Lewis have outlined new measures to support NHS workers

    Waitrose and John Lewis will today (23/3) action new measures to support NHS workers and those in need during the coronavirus outbreak.

    From today, Waitrose shops will protect batches of 'hard to find' and essential stock exclusively for NHS workers. This is to ensure that they have better access to basic shopping items throughout the day. Simply present your NHS ID.

    Alongside this, NHS staff will receive priority checkout treatment in all Waitrose stores, including Milton Keynes, either through a dedicated till or being moved to the front of the queue. 

    Although John Lewis has closed its stores, including the one in centre:mk, the retailer will donate comfort items and Easter gift food to local hospitals and support workers. Comfort items include pillows, phone chargers, eye masks and hand cream. 

    Says Berangere Michel, Executive Director for Customer Service at the John Lewis Partnership, said: "Through these steps we want to recognise the tireless work of NHS staff, supporting us all through these unprecedented circumstances. We hope these measures make their life a little easier; our Partners are keen to do something to help, and we are offering this with sincere thanks from us all." 

    These new measures follow steps outlined by the John Lewis Partnership earlier this week to support customers, including the launch of a £1million Community Support Fund to help local communities along with a protected shopping hour for the elderly and vulnerable. 

    Many Waitrose shops have already been using their community funds to assemble care packages of essential items for vulnerable or elderly people in the local community.

    The protected hour at Waitrose supermarkets is the first opening hour of every day.

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