Frontline staff have the PPE they need in coronavirus fight, says Gail Ross

FRONTLINE health staff in Caithness and Sutherland have the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) they need in the fight against the coronavirus, according to local MSP Gail Ross.

That had been stated by NHS Highland, Mrs Ross said, and she paid tribute to Dounreay and other local businesses that have supported the effort to ensure that all frontline workers in Caithness have adequate access to protective equipment.

Mrs Ross, the SNP MSP for Caithness, Sutherland and Ross, said: "I have worked to ensure that Dounreay supplied what PPE they could donate to frontline workers within Caithness. I would like to thank all at Dounreay for supporting this idea.

"I have also encouraged other businesses locally to donate what they can. I have now had the news confirmed from NHS Highland that there is adequate PPE for all of our frontline workers in Caithness and Sutherland."

Mrs Ross added: "I responded directly to requests for support which I have received from frontline workers and have worked hard to ensure that Dounreay provided PPE to those who desperately needed it in the county. I am delighted that the supply concerns which frontline workers were experiencing are now rectified.

"I would like to reiterate my sincere thanks to all those who are working on the front line. Your dedication to your job and your community is incredible."

A spokesman for NHS Highland said: "Our stock levels of personal protective equipment are reviewed daily by senior managers. We continue to monitor stock levels across all sites, including available supplies planned for delivery to NHS Highland, to ensure sufficient stock will be available at an appropriate level to meet demand."

There has been concern expressed by local trade union representatives and politicians about the supply of personal protective equipment for health and care workers.

As reported last week, Highlands and Islands MSP Rhoda Grant criticised the Scottish Government and NHS Highland after a constituent compared the situation to “putting sticking plasters on gaping holes”.

However, the health board insisted it ensures supplies of PPE are "available to meet demand".

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