Extension of free PPE for health care providers in England announced

The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) has announced the extension of the provision of free personal protective equipment (PPE) for health and care staff in England for another year.

The announcement means that PPE will remain free and accessible for primary care providers, NHS trusts, and adult social care providers until 31 March 2024, or when stock is depleted, whichever comes first. The scheme had been due to close on 31 March this year.

A statement released earlier this week (10 January) said supporting frontline workers remains a priority for the Government. “NHS trusts, primary care and adult social care providers will continue to receive PPE free of charge to ensure staff and their patients are protected against COVID-19.”

Welcoming the announcement, clinical and professional director at the AOP, Dr Peter Hampson, said: “We are pleased to see this further extension of PPE supply, especially during the current NHS crisis that is comprised of rising rates of all respiratory infections and against the backdrop of a wider overburdened secondary care provision. We also welcome this small additional cost saving for practices at this difficult time. While obviously it doesn’t remove existing pressures, at least it does not add to them.”

The DHSC said it would share further information on estimated dates when existing stock is expected to run out by April.