Bolton company sends medical supplies to Ukraine

Vernacare, which has a site in Bolton, has donated thousands of items of essential medical equipment to aid the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the invaded country A range of swabs, IV packs, suture packs, bandages and patient & surface cleaning wipes have been dispatched to help those injured in the conflict and displaced from their homes.

CEO James Steele said: "The past two years of Covid-19 have demonstrated to us all the importance of infection control and preventative measures, and the crucial role that products like ours play in helping medics reduce risk.

"In situations such as the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, infection can take hold and sweep through communities when they are at their most vulnerable.

"Providing refugees with basic essentials and arming the medical teams and volunteers with the necessary equipment to help keep people safe is crucial."

The donation was arranged in co-ordination with the organisation Recycling Lives, whose social value programme is helping to tackle food poverty and reduce food waste.

The appeal will see multiple lorry loads sent to Poland, where the donations will then be broken down to be distributed to the areas on the border to help the communities and refugees. Mr Steel added: "The scenes from Ukraine are truly heart-breaking. In our line of work, we're fortunate to be able to directly help those in need.

"We hope these essential medical supplies will go some way to lessen their suffering during their time of crisis."

Vernacare has more than 40 years experience manufacturing market-leading healthcare brands, including Azo surface cleaning and disinfection wipes, which are used widely in the NHS and across the health and social care sector.

The company exports healthcare solutions to 60 countries, and "continues to innovate in all areas to provide sustainable options, whilst maintaining product integrity used in essential infection prevention environments."