The 2018 winner of the ITV1 show ‘I’m a Celebrity: Get Me Out of Here’ made a surprise visit to the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust (HIOWH) on Tuesday.

The Southampton scheme is one of 29 nationwide funded by NHS Charities Together, working with NHS England, to improve mental and physical health support for the workforce.

A YouGov survey earlier this year showed half of NHS staff believe their job is harming their mental health, and more than 40 per cent report an impact on their physical health.

Shaped by staff feedback, the funded projects include wellbeing support for night teams, new neurodiversity resources, and improved trauma care. The grants form part of an £11million Workforce Wellbeing Programme.

Former Saints, Spurs and Portsmouth manager Redknapp, who has raised thousands for the charity in the past, also used the visit to thank staff personally, having often praised the care given to his wife Sandra during her battle with sepsis.

During the visit, Redknapp said: “It’s been such a brilliant morning meeting all the staff and team here and seeing how NHS Charities are making a positive impact.

“Caring for and saving lives is a responsible job – and I know first-hand from my family’s experiences what a difference these incredible staff make every day – but the pressures facing staff take their toll.

“Everyone who works for the NHS is a person, first and foremost, and they should expect the same level of care that they provide to us. NHS staff are the beating heart of our healthcare service, and we must do more to look after them.”

As the NHS begins its 10-Year Plan for England, charities will play a key role in supporting staff and patients. Projects funded by NHS Charities Together aim to provide the resources and well-being support NHS staff need to continue delivering high-quality care, particularly during challenging periods.

Andrea Metcalf, chief people officer at Hampshire and Isle of Wight NHS Healthcare Foundation Trust, said: “We know that for some staff with disabilities and long-term health conditions they can experience stigma and face barriers to career progression – through this funding we want to help break down these barriers and enable all of our staff to flourish.

“We are incredibly grateful to Harry for taking time to visit us today and to NHS Charities Together and NHS England for providing funding to help us carry out this project.

“By investing in our staff, we are investing in the future of healthcare, creating a workplace where everyone can thrive, and where high-quality care is delivered by a supported and compassionate workforce.”

Ellie Orton, CEO of NHS Charities Together, added: “Many NHS staff feel that theirs is the best job in the world, but these roles come with a tremendous responsibility for the lives they care for, and at a time of incredible pressure on health services, this takes a toll on their mental and physical wellbeing.

“Funding projects like this one run by the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Healthcare Trust can help ensure NHS staff prioritise their own health and wellness with the same care they give to patients, and we are extremely thankful to Harry for his time today and for his continued support of NHS Charities Together.”