Helping our NHS

Upon hearing about PPE shortages for key NHS workers, Chatham South district decided to co-ordinate a response to help out. Leaders of all ages from 18 to 70+, including members of the Trefoil Guild, all used their skills (I learnt to sew at a Brownie meeting) to make equipment to help in these times which may seem hopeless. We reached out to our local community and requested material (at least 60% cotton so it can be washed at high temperatures), wool, buttons and ribbon to support our efforts.

We had an immediate and overwhelming response with people from all over Kent wanting to assist because they did not have the practical sewing ability needed but were able to send resources instead, resulting in living rooms becoming factory floors! As a small but very strong team of about ten leaders (with varying degrees of ability), we set about making items for the NHS: scrubs, scrub bags, ear savers and face shields - using nothing more than simple everyday items.

The first request for items was made by one of our leaders herself, who works in the NHS! This was very exciting, as it felt like we were able to help people working on the front-line, which I feel is a crucial part of Girlguiding and volunteering more widely - seeing a positive impact. In as little as two days, our production line was fully set; from cutting the material to distribution, everybody was doing their part. Being the youngest in this endeavour (18), it has been a lovely break from sitting at a screen and nice to see my Girlguiding family is still active despite being physically apart. The response also involved the entire family, no matter their skill level. Whilst I have been cutting and sewing the ear savers, my dad has “the most important job” (in his own words) of matching the buttons and my mum (also a Guider) has sewn on these ‘perfectly matched’ buttons.

Whilst delivering our finished products to the designated coordinator, we have also been able to use our daily exercise to walk through the woods and rediscover the nature that is on our doorstep. It has been excellent for our mental health and lovely to see other people’s appreciation for the NHS at this challenging time – I urge people, whilst on their daily walk/ exercise, to truly consider what’s around them.

As a district, we are very thankful for all of the donations we have received - we have successfully made over 600 pieces in total (as of 29 April) and are continuing with production.

As a year 13 student who was expecting to be studying hard for my A-level exams, I have been able to refocus my attention (thanks to my Girlguiding community) on something so worthwhile. It is amazing to feel that we are truly contributing to a brilliant cause and see how something so small can be so helpful. We have donated our efforts towards in various hospitals in Kent and to Medway paramedics/care workers.

Have you been doing an amazing job like Maya and her district, making scrubs for our NHS? Or are you one of our many guiding heroes who have managed to #carryonguiding? Let us know on our Facebook and Instagram - we're so proud of you all!