The government has released a statement and information about the availability of PPE for the care sector:
“We know that supplies of personal protective equipment to the care sector is fundamental for the good care of individuals with suspected symptoms of Covid-19. We are clear that no wholesaler has been asked to prioritise NHS provision over the care sector nor should they be doing so.
Free distribution of fluid repellent facemasks from the pandemic flu stock will start today , with every care home and home care provider receiving at least 300 facemasks. We anticipate the distribution will be complete by next Tuesday. This is aimed at tiding over the initial rise in demand following the change of guidance on facemasks last week. Providers are not required to take action; the stock will be delivered to them.
We are working rapidly with wholesalers to ensure a longer-term supply of all aspects of personal protective equipment, including gloves, aprons, facemasks and hand sanitiser. For future PPE requirements, care providers should order PPE from their usual suppliers.
If care providers have immediate concerns overs their supply of PPE, there is now a dedicated line for you, the health and social care sector.
The National Supply Disruption line
Tel: 0800 915 9964
Email: supplydisruptionservice@nhsbsa.nhs.uk
In the future, if a care provider is unable to get PPE from their normal supplier, the supplier is will be asked to report this to the National Supply Disruption Response (NSDR) team (as above), who can advise on alternative suppliers.”
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