Ross speaks out over need for frontline workers to have correct PPE
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
NORTH MSP Gail Ross has said it is "imperative" health and care workers on the front line in the fight against the coronavirus get the right personal protective equipment (PPE).
She spoke out after widespread concern about NHS and care staff all over the UK not getting adequate or correct supplies of the protective clothing they need.
"I have been contacted by people about the provision of PPE in the NHS locally and several more in third sector [voluntary] organisations," said Mrs Ross, the SNP MSP for Caithness, Sutherland and Ross.
"I have had reassurances from NHS Highland management that they have adequate stocks but the personal stories I have heard do not necessarily back that up. It is imperative that the correct protective equipment is provided and that the correct amount is being ordered."
She added: "The Scottish Government has repeatedly stated there is more than enough, both in stock and on order. Jamie Stone MP and I have written to the health secretary [Jeane Freeman] to ensure that NHS Highland management is ordering enough and explaining to staff what is needed in each situation in accordance with national guidance.
"If anyone feels that they are in need of PPE and don’t want to bring it to the attention of their manager they can email covid-19-health-PPE@gov.scot in confidence and I would urge them to do so.
"I would also like to reiterate my heartfelt thanks to all health and care workers at this very difficult time."
Willie Swanson, the GMB assistant branch secretary for the Highlands and Islands, said: "I do not think there are issues with our local NHS workers. If anything they are performing very well with limited staff but the dwindling supply of PPE in the UK is an added complication that has to be addressed nationally.
"That said, the supply of protective equipment to home carers has been abysmal and needs to be improved as they deal with some of the most vulnerable people within our community. It seems local staff are coping but are under strain and that has to dealt with by the health authority."
Mr Swanson added: "I am not sure what can be done to supply everyone with adequate stocks of PPE as there is no certainty of how quickly coronavirus will spread. Will we reach the peak this week, or will that happen in a couple of weeks?
"Both Holyrood and Westminster need to work with manufacturers, suppliers and distributors to ensure as much resource as possible will be delivered in a timely manner to where it is needed.
"Everyone wants the NHS to run smoothly and be well resourced with staff, PPE and other equipment. Both Holyrood and Westminster say they are committed to this – only time will tell if they are successful in finding the right resources within a narrow timescale.
"There are many companies willing to manufacture PPE but will this be approved for use by the authorities."
Mr Swanson noted that some people in the community with 3D printers had been supplying face shields.
"They are also supplying headbands to support the goggles as they are uncomfortable to wear. That suggests that some of the PPE may need to be reassessed," he said.
No-one from NHS Highland was available to comment on the matter.
