Recommendation 6

HM Government Acknowledged

6.1 In response to the additional demand for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) from the adult social care sector this year, the Government has ensured that there is an emergency supply of PPE in place, whilst building a longer-term solution for distribution to the sector. 6.2 Following the initial announcement in the adult social care winter plan of free PPE provision for COVID-19 needs for the adult social care sector until March 2021, the scheme has now been extended until June 2021. This is accessible to CQC- registered care homes and domiciliary care providers via the PPE portal. For providers of social care not on the PPE portal, such as personal assistants; supported living; extra care; shared lives; and day care services, free PPE can be accessed via Local Resilience Forums (LRFs), where they are continuing PPE distribution, or via local authorities where LRFs have stood down regular PPE distribution. 6.3 Routes to access PPE in the event of an emergency shortage have also been developed. All adult social care providers can access the emergency PPE stockpile held by LRFs. Where this need is urgent and PPE is required within 72 hours, providers can also access PPE through the National Supply Disruption Response (NSDR). 6.4 We have seen a monumental change in the way that PPE has been secured and supplied across the country. We have learnt a great deal from this experience and want to build on these learnings to transition to a future model for PPE that is both resilient and proportionate. Any future plans are focused on ensuring a strong supply of PPE for both health and social care staff.