South Lincs builders’ merchant donates vital PPE equipment to first responders

A South Lincolnshire builders’ merchant has donated much-needed personal protective equipment to Community First Medic Responders.

Branch Bros, which has branches in Deeping St James, Holbeach and Bourne, has provided a range of items including eye protection, suits, gloves and face masks, to support the vital work of LIVES in Lincolnshire.

The company pulled together all its stock to support the charity.

LIVES is a charity which provides sector leading training and equipment for their army of volunteers, who deliver vital care across Lincolnshire to those in the first critical moments of a 999 medical emergency, before handing over to the ambulance service.

It is estimated that one in five people in the county have been cared for by the service since 2000.

Kirsty Raywood, of LIVES, said: “During these difficult times, we have working hard to provide the correct levels of PPE to our Community First Responder and Medic Responders.

“We need to keep them safe and well, so they can be there for their community when the worst happens.

“The donation from Branch Bros has meant so much to us, we can continue to be there, when minutes matter, safely.”

Ashley Branch, of Branch Bros, said: “As a rural based business we recognise the vital role that LIVES carries out.

“They are often the first on the scene and we wanted to support them as best we could in these unprecedented times.”

Branch Bros’ work is part of a co-ordinated effort by national trade body the Builders Merchants Federation (BMF) appealing for donations of PPE for the healthcare sector across its membership.

John Newcomb, Chief Executive of the BMF, said: “Branch Bros have made a major contribution to the work of LIVES.

“Our members play a key role in the community and the unique nature of their work, and their stock of PPE, puts them in a good position to make a difference to our healthcare professionals at this difficult time.”