AUDIT REPORT ON PPE HIGHLIGHTS EFFORTS BY HEALTH UNIONS TO PROTECT WORKERS AND PATIENTS

"This report confirms and highlights extensive efforts by health unions to protect workers and patients" according to lead negotiator Anne Speed of UNISON NI.

 "During the early days of the pandemic many hours were spent in discussions with RQIA, PHA and Health Trusts to secure supply of PPE. We very quickly became aware of the shortfall in supplies and our members anxiety on their own safety and the safety of patients and clients needing care in the independent sector.

Through negotiations we secured formal agreement which not only guaranteed supplies of PPE but also released staff volunteering to assist when independent sector staff fell ill.

UNISONs health committee will be taking a very close look at the latest report from the Northern Ireland Audit Office especially at the data procurement processes. Our assessment of lessons to be learned will be directly raised with the Department of Health and relevant agencies.