MEMBERS of the public and businesses in Wiltshire have donated almost a thousand items of personal protective equipment (PPE), after a call went out for support.

With high demand for PPE, Wiltshire Council and Wiltshire Police appealed for support from local suppliers or any businesses that had stock which could be used.

Wiltshire did not disappoint as in just a matter of days stocks have been provided, far exceeding expectations from businesses and members of the public.

The donations include 423 boxes of different sized gloves, 75 rolls of aprons, three 5 litre sanitisers, 400 plastic sacks and 80 boxes of shoe covers. The donated items are being split equally between the council and the police after the joint appeal.

Joint Wiltshire Council chief executives, Terence Herbert and Alistair Cunningham, said: “We want to thank all those who have been so generous and provided this PPE to support local efforts in tackling Covid-19.

“National supply chains have been under immense pressure and although some stocks are now being delivered, we are grateful for this generous local response.

“We would encourage that support to continue so our key workers can deliver these critical services to the community. Wiltshire really has led the way with its community response and this is one great example of communities pulling together and making a real difference at this challenging time.”

Deputy Chief Constable Paul Mills said: “I would like to say a huge thank you to those who have donated PPE which will help protect our frontline.”

“The welfare of officers and staff is of paramount importance to us and getting the right protective equipment to them is crucial.

“It is no secret that, whilst responding to this unprecedented, national health pandemic, there have been some issues with getting the right quantity of kit to emergency services across the country. Wiltshire Police is no exception to this.

“It is vital that officers are well equipped so they can continue to protect and serve their communities.”

Any businesses that can help with the supply of PPE are asked to email CandF.Commissioning@wiltshire.gov.uk with the subject line PPE support.

Key items required are water repellent surgical face masks, non-latex gloves, and disposable plastic aprons.