£30,000 for PPE from Halkirk and district fund

THE directors of a Caithness fund have released £30,000 from its reserves towards the purchase of personal protection equipment (PPE) for local use.

Halkirk and District Benefit Fund (HDBF) took the decision in order "to protect members of the Caithness community from potential exposure to coronavirus in the challenging times ahead".

Gillian Coghill, former Highland councillor and chairperson of the fund, said: "There are no boundaries when we are faced with this crisis.

"Members of the Halkirk community and the wider community of Caithness needed support to assist with PPE equipment and as a fund we were happy to help."

Part of the HDBF donation includes £3000 for Chris Aitken and his 3D printing team making visors for healthcare workers.

"As a fund we recognise the dedication and hard work of all involved," Mrs Coghill said.

"This is a crisis that is affecting everyone, in every area, and it requires a united approach to help in any way."

Some of the PPE has already arrived and is being distributed throughout the county with the assistance of two local GPs, Dr Pearson and Dr Brooks.

The HDBF directors say they are very grateful to Lieurary-based Norse Stone for assisting in securing some of the PPE received.

"As a fund we would like to take this opportunity to say a huge thank you for everything that is being done, no matter how big or small, to protect the NHS and save the lives of many within our wonderful community," Mrs Coghill said.

"If this donation saves lives and protects NHS staff, members the Halkirk community and the wider community of Caithness then it is money well spent."

Do you want to respond to this article? If so, click here to submit your thoughts and they may be published in print.