Oh thats an entirely different issue to the point I was making about the media attention.
The base function of the NHS should be funded by taxation (including National Insurance).
But Tom has been fundraising for
https://www.nhscharitiestogether.co.uk
The NHS charities often fund other non-essential things, as well as large capital project. Yes often those capital projects should be government funded, but this isn't an idea world.
But the nice-to-have things they are currently raising money for mainly are to support the staff and families of the NHS workers, such as accommodation at hospitals so nurses can avoid travel and infecting their family. Or mental health support for staff and families.
The charities also cover research activity (similar to cancer research UK and other charities).
You can read about where some of the recent fundraising is going to here
https://www.nhscharitiestogether.co...5m-to-nhs-charities-together-covid-19-appeal/
So yes, the day-to-day running should be taxation funded, but there are a lot of things that really help NHS staff that no employer would normally pay for.
Oh and edit to add.
I agree that the clapping is pointless, all those people who vote tory and don't want tax increases but will "clap for support" instead of actually paying taxes to support the NHS.