Hundreds of visors donated to help protect frontline hospital staff in North Wales

Hundreds of visors to help protect frontline staff during the COVID-19 pandemic have been donated to Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board thanks to a huge effort by the local community.

A project began a week ago between North Wales Tech, Bangor University, Grwp Llandrillo Menai, schools in Gwynedd and Anglesey and private companies to create the Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

Within only five days around 700 visors were delivered to Ysbyty Gwynedd to be distributed across the hospitals in North Wales.

Dr Simon Burnell, Consultant Anaesthetist at Ysbyty Gwynedd, who was present to receive the visors, said: “We are extremely grateful for this donation to help keep our staff protected during these times.

“This has been an incredible effort and it’s very humbling to see how our close knit community is coming together to do everything they can to help us.”

The visors were delivered by members of Menai Science Park who have been involved in the production.

“I’ve been amazed to witness the power of the people in reacting to this issue over the last five days,” said Pryderi ap Rhisiart, Menai Science Park’s Managing Director

“It shows that we can work together effectively, between community members, academia, public and private sector.”

Mark Polin, Chair of Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board has echoed calls from the First Minister for businesses to support in producing PPE for frontline staff fighting the outbreak of COVID-19.

The Health Board has received a huge response to the ongoing appeal for equipment and is working with individuals to coordinate the work and ensure that locally manufactured products meet the required protective standards.

Mr Polin said: “We would like to thank all organisations and individuals who have already been in touch for their support and generosity during the outbreak of COVID-19.

“I would like to urge any companies across North Wales to come forward if they can assist us in any way.

“Whether it is visors, masks, aprons or gloves, the anticipated increase in the number of COVID-19 cases will no doubt see demand for these items rise further throughout the country in the coming days, weeks and months.”

@NHSDirectWales Wrexham Maelor Hospital received 183 visors today from @BishopHeberHS with our gratitude. Hopefully 200 more tomorrow thanks to our great D&T colleagues and local donations. #NHSheroes #StayHomeSaveLives pic.twitter.com/Sxtp8HBdnH

— David Curry (@Heber_Head) April 6, 2020

220 sets of safety glasses and goggles heading off to Wrexham Mealor A&E department today.

Safe safe everyone! pic.twitter.com/SF7hyK8wd2

— Ysgol Treffynnon (@TreffynnonSch) April 6, 2020

Good news, we have just had the face mask design approved by Bangor University and Betsi Cadwaladr NHS. Ready to start production for the Maelor Hospital on Tuesday.

— Ysgol Clywedog (@Ysgol_Clywedog) April 4, 2020

There are a number of ways for companies to help this urgent request for PPE:

· Visit the North Wales NHS Charity website Awyr Las

· Emailing the Procurement Department via [email protected]