Frontline health workers treating coronavirus patients are risking their lives and the lives of their families. According to Newsweek, as of 04 April, more than 100 doctors and nurses have died globally combating coronavirus. The Telegraph reported, as of 07 April, 14 have died in the UK. They are working 12-13 hour shifts and 60 hours per week while leaving their children and loved ones behind to save lives. When they return home, they pose a risk to their dear families too. With the situation worsening and working conditions becoming more stressful, morale may dwindle.

In contrast, most of us have been asked to enjoy the safety of our home, and yet still could be paid by our employers or by the government for up to 80% of our wages. We would not be a just and fair society if those who stay safe at home and those who are required to put their lives at risk for us at the frontline of this pandemic are remunerated the same.

They are the real heroes in this crisis. If footballers can be paid bonuses for winning championships, if managers can be paid bonuses for furthering the interests of shareholders, and if bankers can be paid bonuses for saving the banks, then medical staff should also be paid bonuses for saving lives during this unprecedented health crisis.

The Queen said: "I want to thank everyone on the NHS front line, as well as care workers and those carrying out essential roles, who selflessly continue their day-to-day duties outside the home in support of us all...While we have faced challenges before, this one is different." As noble and invaluable these words are, we need to reward the courage and risk bore by medical staff more than just thanking them.

Therefore, we, the public, request the NHS leadership including Simon Stevens, NHS Chief Executive and Matt Hancock, Secretary of State for Health and Social Care as well as the UK Parliament to reward medical staff working at the frontline of the coronavirus pandemic by paying them double salary or bonus for putting their lives at risk for us.