Queen leads tributes to staff caring for those injured in Manchester attack

The Queen and the prime minister have led tributes to nurses and other NHS staff caring for people injured in the terrorist attack in Manchester.

The RCN has also praised nursing staff involved in the events and urged them to 'take time' to process what has taken place.

At least 22 people died, including children, and 59 people were injured when a suicide bomber detonated an 'improvised device' following a concert by singer Ariana Grande at the Manchester Arena on Monday night.

Royal response

The Queen issued a statement thanking the emergency services, and expressing sympathy to those affected.

She said: 'I know I speak for everyone in expressing my deepest sympathy to all who have been affected by this dreadful event and especially to the families and friends of those who have died or were injured.

'I want to thank all the members of the emergency services who have responded with such professionalism and care.'

Prime minister Theresa May paid tribute to NHS staff in a speech from Downing Street on Tuesday.

Ms May said: 'Many paramedics, doctors and nurses have worked valiantly – amid traumatic and terrible scenes – to save lives and care for the wounded.'

She said the attack in Manchester was 'among the worst terrorist incidents' ever experienced in the United Kingdom.

'The images we hold in our minds should not be those of senseless slaughter, but of the ordinary men and women who put concerns about their own safety to one side and rushed to help.

'Also of the men and women of the emergency services who worked tirelessly to bring comfort, help and save lives.'

'Absolute tragedy'

RCN professional lead for acute, emergency and critical care Anna Crossley said: 'This is an absolute tragedy and our thoughts are with the victims and their families.

'The RCN pays tribute to all the nursing staff in Greater Manchester working to care for those injured in this horrific attack, alongside others in need of care.

'Each and every one of their contributions is highly valued.'

Ms Crossley added that for nursing staff and students it could be 'a lot to take in'.

She said: 'It’s important that nursing staff working in these traumatic situations take the time to process events, discuss them with others and care for their own mental health.'

Online comments

Others took to Twitter to express sadness and support.

RCN president Cecilia Anim tweeted that 'thoughts and prayers' were 'with the people of Manchester, bereaved families, victims and health professionals caring for the injured'.

NHS England director of nursing Hilary Garratt wrote: 'My heart goes out to the arena victims, families and Manchester people. Human kindness can never be beaten. Thanks to people and staff helping.'

The University of Salford's account for nursing students, @NursingSUni, earlier tweeted: 'As you wake up to the shocking news, we hope all of our students are safe and well, sending deepest condolences to all affected.'

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