BETSI Cadwaladr University Health Board is urgently appealing to businesses who are able to change their production lines to make personal protective equipment (PPE).

The health board is echoing a plea by First Minister Mark Drakeford for support from businesses to create a new Welsh supply of personal protective equipment (PPE) to support NHS and social care staff.

Examples of PPE needed includes visors, masks, aprons and gloves.

Mark Polin, chair of BCUHB, said: "This is a rallying call for arms for companies to change their production lines where possible and start making this hugely important protective equipment. It is paramount that our brave and committed frontline colleagues feel safe and are safe so that they can in turn protect and provide the best care they can to those requiring their help.

“Whether it is visors, masks, aprons or gloves, a change in government guidance explaining when PPE should be worn will no doubt see demand for these items rise further throughout the country in the coming days, weeks and months.

“As we are all aware, this virus shows no discrimination as each and every one of us is vulnerable towards it, some more than others.

"We all have a part to play in making sure our loved ones continue to receive the best care we can give and that our colleagues remain as safe as possible for those of us that will sadly require specialist frontline care.”

New guidance has been issued in the UK which simplifies when health and social care staff should use PPE.

Mr Drakeford said: "This is a time like no other – as a nation we must stand up and respond to the huge challenges presented by the coronavirus pandemic.

"I want to thank the many businesses and manufacturers in Wales who have already made offers of help to produce PPE and other equipment. We are responding as quickly as we can to the offers we already have, but we want and need more.

"I am calling on companies to help our NHS and produce much-needed PPE products which will be vital for our frontline staff.

"Welsh business has an important role to play in delivering the products needed."

There are a number of ways for companies for companies to respond:

Visit bcuhb.nhs.wales; awyrlas.org.uk or email the procurement department on nwssp.nwales.procurement@wales.nhs.uk

BCUHB has expressed their thanks to organisations and individuals who have already been in touch.

Further volunteers and trained return to practice clinical staff are still needed.

Visit the BCUHB website to become a volunteer.

Trained healthcare staff wanting to join the staff bank can contact BCU.TemporaryStaffingAdmin@wales.nhs.uk