Like many employees around the UK, I have been on furlough leave since April due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Since the lockdown began and like many others around me, I have been itching to do something to help. Having seen that there was a temporary pause in recruitment for the NHS Volunteer Responders (incredibly the initial process had over 750,000 applications!) I decided to look around locally.
I came across a group called Bags2Queens NHS on Facebook who are a local group of volunteers that have come together virtually through Facebook to help local frontline NHS workers. The group has 684 members and are all working together to make drawstring washbags (so staff can place uniforms straight in the wash), headbands, mask extenders and scrub hats. Having heard that masks were causing NHS staff discomfort and about the cross-contamination risks I thought it was something fantastic to get involved in.
I know next to nothing about sewing but my mum has been a keen sewer and textile artist for over 40 years. A few years ago, she even gave me her old sewing machine, but I’d never previously taken the time to really get to grips with it. Much to her delight I asked for a sewing lesson via Skype which was a new experience for both of us! After a few failed attempts and various helpful tips off the sewing group community I finally made my first batch of washbags and headbands.
It’s a group we’re both proud to be involved with and it’s been lovely to stay connected over a shared topic and interest whilst we’re not able to spend time together in person.
I have just finished my 2nd batch and I am looking forward to my next sewing session.
If you would like to hear more about this amazing group and how you can get involved head to Facebook @Bags2Queens #stitchandshare
Thank you and stay safe.
Becky Oldham,
Marketing Manager
We would like to hear your experiences and responses to the difficulties, challenges and revelations of our new socially distanced lives. Join us on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook to share with us using the hashtag #HOMEWORK
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