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Crowdfunding appeal to help fund 3D printing of equipment for NHS Highland staff


By Ian Duncan

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An example of the type of equipment which the project hopes to produce in the Highlands using 3D printing technology.
An example of the type of equipment which the project hopes to produce in the Highlands using 3D printing technology.

AN online appeal has been launched to provide vital face shields for frontline NHS staff in the Highlands.

Recent reports have highlighted the shortage of much-needed personal protective equipment (PPE) to enable health professionals do their jobs safely during the coronavirus outbreak.

Organisers behind the Covid-19 Highlands crowdfunder appeal aim to use 3D printer technology to produce the headbands and acetate sheets that can be used for face protection.

They have set a target of £1000 and by this morning they had donations totalling almost £800.

A donation of £10 will provide 20 front face acetate sheets, £25 will provide 20 front face acetate sheets and 30 holders and £50 will provide 40 front face acetate sheets and 60 holders.

A spokesman said: "We have a community group on Facebook that is helping out with 3D printing of face visor shields. These are essential personal protective equipment (PPE) items for NHS staff in dealing with the Covid-19 outbreak.

"We are already printing parts but would need funds to purchase more filament for 3D printers to make the headbands and acetate sheets that can be used for face protection.

"The demand and supply of these items is crucial, there simply isn't an adequate stock being issued at present. Any help towards this would be very much gratefully accepted.

"We are planning to help anyone that needs this protection. We are already in contact with staff at Raigmore Hospital and we are also looking to help community staff – all frontline workers."

Councillor Ken Gowans, who represents Highland Council's Inverness South ward, is involved with the project and posted about it on Twitter this morning.

In his tweet he said: "These are designers, industry and schools who are 3D printing, supporting frontline NHS staff to help save lives. The materials are expensive. Please help if you can."

To make a donation visit here.


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