Government strategy to deliver PPE to NHS staff published

on 14 April 2020

The UK Government has announced more personal protective equipment (PPE) will be delivered across the NHS during the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to the Department of Health and Social Care, over 176 million pieces of PPE has been delivered across the UK, with more due to be delivered.

The Government has set out a strategy to manage supply and ensuring those who need it most are correctly equipped.

A new website has been developed, which will be rolled out in the coming weeks, to enable primary, social and community care providers to request critical PPE.

The Government has also set up an online hub containing guidance on PPE all in one place.

This strategy is being delivered using a three-strand plan:

• Guidance – being clear on who needs PPE where and when based on clinical and WHO guidance
• Distribution – delivering PPE at the right time and quickly
• Future supply – securing enough PPE to see the UK through the COVID-19 pandemic

To meet demand and needs, companies have pledged to manufacture PPE for the NHS and public organisations.

Organisations include Kingfisher Group, Apple, Huawei, BP, Royals Royce and McLaren.

Speaking about the PPE strategy, Health and Social Care Secretary Matt Hancock said: “Our heroic health and care staff are working around the clock and my absolute priority is to support them. Our new online ordering tool for PPE is supported by a 24/7 national supply and logistics network.

“There is a herculean effort behind the scenes, supported by the military, to get the right kit to our frontline heroes. These new supply chains, matched with a call to arms for more businesses and organisations to join this national effort, will help save lives.”

Government PPE guidance can be found here.