There has been an unprecedented rallying of the local community to gather an army of sewers to try and ease the burden of supply of PPE equipment. This has been a great way for many of us to feel we are making a difference and helping how and where we can. One group ‘Montreal Park Red Zone PPE’, was put together by Georgina Paix, a local Sevenoaks mum, who runs a interiors business. Georgina’s husband works on the frontline and the reality of the equipment shortage inspired her to, with the help of an expert panel, extraordinary donations from the Drapers and Clothworkers Liveries, and the expertise of Nikwax, design a gown suitable for use for frontline NHS staff in conjunction with single use PPE.
This is multi use, water-resistant PPE gown to be distributed directly to frontline staff/ individuals who are treating patients with (or suspected of) having Covid-19. What makes this PPE unique?
- The PPE is tested for water resistance and air permeability.
- Issued without involving the NHS supply chain.
- It is the property of individuals not NHS Trusts.
- The kit is being donated directly to individuals in need.
- This is a high-quality product that is expected to last a minimum of 100+ washes at 60+°C.
- The kit is issued with a starter laundry and re proofing pack and full care guidance.
Georgina said:
I have been blown away with the support that has been given to get this initiative off the ground, Within the last 14 days the volunteer team have been working around the clock to get the gown from the design stage, through testing and into production. We have an army of sewers from the crescent here in Montreal Park and are now in desperate need for more help to meet the demand for this gown”
Georgina explains the pattern is straight forward for the gown and the bag. If you have sewing experience especially working with patterns and feel you would like to get involved, please email Nikki Phillipson the local Sevenoaks coordinator on trulyandtruly@gmail.com. If you don’t sew but would like to get involved, they would love to hear from you too!
You can find out more on the website HERE, or you can follow their progress on Instagram and Facebook.