In an effort to support the local community during the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic, Coleg Gwent staff have been working hard to keep learning going remotely while looking after the wellbeing of staff and learners during this very unusual time. Staff have been working extra hard behind the scenes to collect, donate and supply goods such as personal protective equipment (PPE), sterilisers and oxygen generators to frontline NHS workers, as well as using sophisticated 3D printers in Blaenau Gwent Learning Zone to produce face masks as part of a nationwide crowdfunding campaign.
PPE such as disposable gloves, aprons, full-face visors and face masks, are essential for many key workers during this global crisis, including hospital staff, lab technicians, carers, cleaners and more. However, with a sudden increase in demand for these products, the supply of PPE is under strain. Many health boards and frontline workers are struggling to get hold of the vital PPE required to protect themselves while carrying out their jobs.
Ian Rowe, Head of Health, Safety and Sustainability at Coleg Gwent, said; “the nation is extremely grateful for the dedication and commitment shown by the frontline staff who are caring for our loved ones during these unprecedented times. Communities have shown support and appreciation by applauding our National Health Service from our doorsteps at 8 pm on Thursday evenings, but Coleg Gwent staff want to do more, on a practical level.”
In a bid to help the local community in any way they can, Coleg Gwent staff have rallied together to gather supplies of PPE, sterilising equipment and an oxygen generator to donate to the NHS. Technicians from the Science, Hair and Beauty, Engineering and Motor Vehicle departments of the College quickly responded to the shortage of PPE by providing details of the existing stocks available on campus.
This week, the College caretakers have collected 28,700 disposable gloves, 1,300 disposable aprons, 92 disposable masks, 159 safety goggles, 42 full-face visors, 130 safety glasses, seven litres of hand sanitiser, 1,400 antibacterial wipes, sterilising equipment and an oxygen generator, which has been delivered to the Infection Control team in the local Aneurin Bevan University Health Board – one of the most heavily affected health boards in the country.
It is hoped that these supplies will help protect our crucial frontline staff and save lives in the fight against Coronavirus.
