IN the midst of a global pandemic where many are seeking to play a vital role in the ‘new normal’, a number of major firms and organisations are stepping up to make a difference – with Glasgow-based BAE Systems Naval Ships focusing on making the lives of hospitalised patients more tolerable.

Recently, the multinational defence, security and aerospace giant donated 40 new tablet devices to Glasgow Royal Infirmary and the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital which will help patients get online and stay in touch with their families when in isolation.

John Stuart, NHSGGC’s chief nurse (North Sector), said: “We are so grateful to our friends at BAE Systems for this generous donation. These tablets will open up new opportunities for our patients to get online, use the internet and stay informed. 

“Both here at Glasgow Royal Infirmary and at the Queen Elizabeth, patients will get a great deal of enjoyment from the Kindle Fires. On behalf of both staff and patients within the GRI and QEU hospitals we extend thanks to BAE Systems.”

Glasgow Times:

BAE Systems Managing Director Steve Timms said: 
“We are really pleased that our donation of face shields and tablet devices will make a difference to the staff and patients at the hospitals and care homes in our communities. 

“Like the rest of the country we have been struck by the bravery and commitment of our frontline health workers and the role that technology can play in helping patients connect with their loved ones. 

“We are continuing to work with local charities and organisations to see where we can provide support where it’s needed most.”

Also helping with the heroic efforts on the frontline, BAE has donated more than 9,000 faceshields to NHS Boards across Scotland. 

Glasgow Times:

To achieve the maximum impact, these vital PPE items have been sent directly to where they are needed most, including hospitals, trusts, hospices and care homes.

Donations have already been made to more than 15 Scottish hospitals and care homes including Gartnavel General Hospital, Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, and the Golden Jubilee National Hospital.

All of BAE Systems’ industrial-scale 3D printers are now producing face shields for the NHS, with fresh supplies being delivered to frontline health workers every single day while the need for protection continues. 

The company’s smaller scale 3D printers across the UK are also coming online to help the with the present PPE effort, producing face shields at a smaller volume as well as innovative ‘door claws’ that help care homes reduce the spread of infection.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT
BAE Systems has also been working with Morrisons to purchase 100 bags of essential toiletries which will be passed onto patients in the Covid-19 wards at Queen Elizabeth University Hospital. As no visitors are presently allowed into hospitals to visit, many of the usual gifts of fruit, water and toiletries are not being brought in. 

Whilst in Govan, BAE Systems is providing hot food and drinks for around 600 people to ensure the local community is receiving much-needed supplies through the Salvation Army in partnership with Govan Housing Association (GHA) and Govan Youth Initiative Project (GYIP).

Majors Mark & Tracy Bearcroft (Govan Salvation Army) said: “This is a great opportunity to be sensitive to the social needs of our community and do what we are good at providing we remain vigilant and careful. We may have closed our doors due to the coronavirus, but we are back helping on the streets!”