"There is unprecedented demand for personal protection equipment at the moment, and we want to ensure that as much PPE is going to those who need it most."
Cllr Izzi Seccombe
One of the world’s biggest car makers has driven in to answer Warwickshire County Council’s calls for more personal protection equipment to help the region’s care workers during the coronavirus pandemic.
BMW’s major powertrain plant at Hams Hall in Coleshill has donated 6,000 pairs of gloves for the council to distribute to care workers and care homes throughout the county.
The donation came about after Warwickshire County Council put out an appeal for personal protection equipment together with partner organisations including the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, the Coventry and Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership, its Growth Hub, and West Midlands Combined Authority.
Cllr Izzi Seccombe, portfolio holder for economic development and Leader of Warwickshire County Council, said: “There is unprecedented demand for personal protection equipment at the moment, and we want to ensure that as much PPE is going to those who need it most - namely those who are exposed to the virus on the frontline.
“We are so grateful to BMW for reaching out to us with such a large donation of gloves which are such a vital layer of protection. They are just one of the many local companies and organisations that have demonstrated great generosity at this time.
“We are currently allocating all of the donated gloves to care homes around the county, and if there are other organisations that would like to donate PPE equipment, or key workers who are in need of supplies, then we’d love to hear from you.
“Equipment we are especially on the lookout for include disposable nitrile powder-free gloves and aprons, as well as face masks - all with the relevant CE markings.”
Bernd Gress, plant director, BMW Plant Hams Hall, added: “At the moment, we are all finding our way through unprecedented times. First and foremost, the health of our workforce, their families and those living and working in the local community is really important to us. We are pleased to have been able to make such a valued contribution that will support the safe care of vulnerable people in Warwickshire.”
Organisations wishing to make an offer of donating PPE equipment, or key workers in need of support with PPE should email cv19ppe@warwickshire.gov.uk
For more information about who can qualifies for PPE support from Warwickshire County Council, visit www.warwickshire.gov.uk/coronavirusppe
