A CHARITY has been using the latest modern technology to help community organisations get personal protective equipment.

Delta North, which is a school for children outside of mainstream education, based in Consett, has been making facemasks using a 3D laser printer.

It secured funding from Derwent Valley Area Action Partnership to supply the free shields to key workers living or working in the area.

Chief executive Billy Robson said: “We have the equipment in place and will keep producing as many face shields as possible to key workers who are working on the front line as this item of PPE is essential to help minimise the risk of infection

“We will be working with other local community groups to help distribute this equipment and anyone requesting equipment will be told whether this will need to be picked up or if it can be delivered.”

Delta North, formerly Consett YMCA, has been operating as a community-based charitable organisation for over 100 years, and has a track record of working with young people and their families from across the region.

Staff are working remotely to maintain daily contact with over 300 young people to continue their support.

Mr Robson said: “This national emergency has had a massive impact on young people and their families.”

The charity’s shop has been supplying furniture to families since the start of the pandemic and will continue to help where it can.

Delta North is looking for small pots of funding so this service can be maintained for however long its needed.

Mr Robson added: “We are working alongside some of our partnership agencies deliver food parcels and equipment on a daily basis to families in need.

“One of our local vicars contacted us about a refugee family who were struggling, and very quickly, baby clothes and equipment and food supplies were delivered.

“Food parcels are being put together and sent out to people as soon as we have gathered enough funding and collected donations from some of our generous local supermarkets.”

“Staff will stay in daily contact with all the young people who access our services, and some of our elderly residents offering individual support and guidance for however long it takes.”