Personal Protective Equipment Arrives

Following a strong cross-party campaign through the Local Government Association, the first government delivery of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for care workers finally arrived in Cheshire East on Monday evening, 6th April.

Council Leaders from across the country had been putting pressure on the government to deliver what they had promised, so that workers caring for some of the most vulnerable in our society would be properly protected and be able to protect those they care for.

Thanks to the foresight of Cheshire East Council staff in procuring supplies of PPE a few weeks ago, Cheshire East Council has been able to maintain supplies to its staff and to care homes in Cheshire East throughout this crisis. However, even with the latest delivery, the stocks of some items such as surgical masks and disposable aprons could run out within days if new supplies don’t arrive.

Cheshire East Council employs care workers, as well as indirectly engaging care workers through the private sector. The PPE will be used by carers visiting people’s homes as well as workers in care homes.

Cllr Sam Corcoran, Labour Leader of Cheshire East Council, said “It is heartening to see the solidarity across councils. The Local Government Association has been a strong voice for all councils, regardless of political colour and has worked effectively to raise valid concerns with the government. I am greatly relieved that the lobbying work through the Local Government Association has delivered this consignment of Personal Protective Equipment, so that we can continue to provide proper protection for our valued workers in Cheshire East. The latest delivery will help, but unless a good supply and distribution system is established then I fear that the supply of Personal Protective Equipment will be an ongoing problem.”

Brian Puddicombe, Labour councillor for Macclesfield South, said “We will work alongside the trade unions at Cheshire East Council to make sure that workers’ safety is not jeopardised in any way.  We must ensure that the government provides the resources needed to cope during this pandemic. Our care workers are essential key workers and often their work goes without the credit that it deserves.”