Volunteers are sewing scrubs for local NHS heroes

Date published: 09 April 2020

You may have heard about Sister Susie sewing shirts for soldiers in World War One, but thousands of volunteers across the nation are sewing scrubs for the NHS amidst the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic.

The campaign – For the Love of Scrubs – was started last week in Lincolnshire by A&E nurse Ashleigh Linsdell after identifying an urgent need for the protective clothing.

Since then, thousands of volunteers across the country have responded to the demand, stitching additional sets of scrubs for local hospitals and uniform wash bags.

Scrubs Hub Bury, Oldham and Rochdale is providing essential scrubs for local NHS staff and front line workers, with around 80 members sewing scrubs or bags, as well as delivering the finished garments and collecting fabric.

The local group has had requests for around 275 bags, and 245 scrubs and has already provided the Rochdale ambulance service with approximately 80 bags.

Co-ordinator Zoe Sutcliffe, who usually creates dance costumes, said: “Staff have to change their scrubs each time they leave a Covid-19 area, meaning the demand is outstripping supply.

“Some of our members have said this is a godsend, with one 75-year-old lady sewing seven sets in four days.

“Loads of smaller businesses have been really helpful with donating to us, and we have been sourcing fabric from anywhere we can. If any fabric suppliers can help us out with donations, that would be greatly appreciated.

“A set of scrubs costs us around £8 to make, so if we can save the NHS money, so it can be concentrated where it is needed, and we can help staff feel safer, it’s all worth it.”

To donate towards the local scrubs effort, please visit:

• www.gofundme.com/f/scrubs-hub-bury-oldham-rochdale-areas

If you want to become involved, please visit:

• www.facebook.com/groups/ScrubsHubBury/?ref=share