The Duke of Cambridge has said that he and the Duchess of Cambridge regularly speak to their children in order to help them understand the significance of the work that the NHS staff are doing during the coronavirus pandemic.

Speaking to various NHS workers at Homerton University Hospital in East London via video call on Thursday, Prince William asked about their experiences thus far and checked to see how they were coping as Covid-19 infection rates continue to soar across the country, given that the UK now has more Covid cases per capita than any other country.

"Catherine and I and all the children talk about all of you guys every day, so we're making sure the children understand all of the sacrifices that all of you are making," he said.

Occupational therapist Nazia Ahmad said that there was a room in the hospital that had been useful as a place to just “get away” from being on the wards, adding that pet therapy, which was implemented in the hospital, had also been hugely helpful.

Prince William asked if any of the NHS workers were currently living away from family members, to which intensive care sister Debbie Bedassie replied: “I just can’t feel comfortable to see them."

Ms Bedassie added that she has already been vaccinated against Covid-19.

The Duke, who is also a joint patron of NHS Charities Together, concluded the call by thanking the NHS staff.

"A huge thank you for all the hard work, the sleepless nights, the lack of sleep, the anxiety, the exhaustion and everything that you are doing, we are so grateful.

"Good luck, we are all thinking of you."