Bexley leaders have praised local businesses and schools who have stepped forward to provide vital equipment to workers fighting Covid-19 on the frontline.

Boroughs across London have made desperate appeals for Personal Protective Equipment for care and health workers, as the country battles a desperate shortage of supplies which NHS staff fear could put their lives at risk.

In Bexley, the crisis has seen local organisations spring forward to fill the void.

Among them are schools – the Trinity Church of England School at Belvedere donated 150 pairs of protective eyewear, while Haberdashers’ Aske’s Crayford Academy gave about 230 goggles and 100 disposable gloves to the cause. 

The good work was continued by Chislehurst and Sidcup Grammar School, whose DT Department knocked together 70 visors for use at Princess Royal University Hospital. 

Local businesses have also made important contributions, with Sahara Presentation Systems – who donated 3,000 face masks and thousands of disposable gloves to Bexley Council – Europa Worldwide Logistics, and Alfred Bagnall and Sons helping with equipment to keep care workers safe.

Bexley Council leader Teresa O’Neill praised the efforts of volunteers, workers and council staff throughout the unprecedented health crisis so far.

“In these uncertain times it is really heartening to see Bexley residents ready to step up to the plate to help others. We know we have a fantastic community in Bexley but I really want to thank all those helping those less fortunate than themselves and encourage others to join in,” she said.

She added Lidl, Waitrose, Hovis and Europa Gym had all provided desperately-needed food donations needed for vulnerable residents. 

“I also want to mention our fantastic team of Bexley officers, led by our Chief Executive, many of whom are doing completely different jobs to ensure the Council does what it can to help our residents at this difficult time.”

Her view was echoed by the council’s Labour leader, Daniel Francis.

 “I’d like to thank everyone in the community for all they are doing to ensure public sector workers and charities have the protective equipment they need,” he said.

 “In addition, I support the Local Government Association’s call for the Government to ensure equipment is of acceptable quality and to ensure it reaches our frontline workers in good time given concerns raised across the sector.”

Bexley Council have set up a coronavirus helpline at 020 3045 5398, while those looking to help can do so by visiting the Bexley Volunteer Service Council website at https://bvsc.co.uk/home