Published: 29/04/2020
COMMUNITY support groups in Copeland have received vital PPE supplies thanks to a local charity and its contributors.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) including 300 bottles of hand sanitiser and 1,400 pairs of gloves were distributed locally.
Groups set up to assist communities through the current Coronavirus pandemic in Distington, Egremont, Ennerdale, Frizington, Seascale and Gosforth, St Bees and Whitehaven have received the goods today (Wednesday).
These groups are currently playing a vital role in their communities, including helping to distribute food and medical supplies to vulnerable Copeland residents.
West Cumbria Community Action Trust organised the purchase of the supplies in partnership with Copeland Council, after UNISON donated £1,000 to support the local efforts.
Sellafield Ltd stepped forward to help distribute the goods through the use of its vehicles and workforce.
Seascale Pharmacy also supported the efforts by including extra PPE free of charge in the order.
A representative from West Cumbria Community Action Trust said: “It’s fantastic to see West Cumbrians pulling together to support safe practices and help our vulnerable residents.
“The community spirit shown through these groups is honourable, with volunteers for each area stepping forward to make sure friends, family and neighbours don’t go hungry or without vital medical medication, and remain shielded in their own home.
“It wouldn’t be possible to carry out this work, and enable these shielded groups to remain indoors, without the generous support and contributions from local residents and the organisations stepping forward to help.
“We’d like to say a sincere thank you to Copeland Council who have provided employees to organise the initiative, to Sellafield Ltd who enabled the distribution of the PPE, and lastly to UNISON for supporting the safe practice of local volunteer groups to carry on their vital work in their communities.”
Mike Starkie, Mayor of Copeland, said: “Making sure those who are going over and above right now are protected in their roles is paramount.
“Thank you to all involved in this endeavour for helping to keep our residents safe and protected at this time and for the continuing hard work and dedication of those that are getting up and out each day to help distribute vital supplies to some of our borough’s most vulnerable residents.”
