Crafty idea to help secure PPE gets ‘enthusiastic thumbs up’

Simple “button band” facemask fasteners are helping protect frontline health workers throughout Perth and Kinross.

Volunteers are handcrafting clever cotton ties that help ensure a tighter fit for PPE worn by nurses and care workers.

Keen crafter Liz Barrett was asked by Wilma Latham, clinical and professional team manager for South Perthshire, to arrange production of button bands for district nurses and community hospital teams.

The bands are rectangles of strong cotton fabric with two buttons that elastic can be looped around, so the masks fasten at the back of the head rather than over ears.

Liz said: “Nurses and carers have been struggling to get a tight fit with some masks that have elastic, rather than ties.

“We sorted out the best design and the nurses tested 20 over a weekend. They gave us an enthusiastic thumbs up.

“Last Monday, I started contacting neighbours, friends, church and community volunteer groups, as well as the council, and the response has been absolutely fantastic.

“Within a week, we have delivered well over 400 bands to NHS and care home staff across Perth and Kinross, and there are many more in the pipeline.

“I want to say a huge thank you to everyone who is helping, whether by stitching bands or donating fabric or buttons. It makes a big difference to comfort and safety, and all the recipients are also delighted that we are doing this.”

To help out, or to start your own group, contact Liz on 01738 571527.

Picture: Mhairi Edwards. Liz Barrett with some of her button bands.