Wood and Maggie’s donate 10,000 face masks to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary

Wood has teamed up with cancer charity Maggie’s to provide thousands of face masks to health workers in Aberdeen.

The energy services firm donated 10,000 fluid-resistant surgical masks to Maggie’s, which will split them them between Aberdeen Royal Infirmary and care homes across the city.

Maggie’s received their supply of masks shipped from Wood’s team in China on April 28, and handed over 6,000 of them to ARI staff on Friday.

Dave Stewart, Wood’s chief executive of asset solutions, said: “Our joint venture partner in China visited the Maggie’s centre in the grounds of ARI last year and was inspired by their work.”

“When the Covid-19 pandemic hit the UK, he sought to help in any way he could and has generously donated these masks.”

“We are delighted to do a little to help and hope that the masks will make a significant difference for the frontline staff at ARI as well as those in local care homes.”

Kevin Mathieson, centre head of Maggie’s Aberdeen, said that since his staff are working remotely it was “right” to pass the masks to partners at ARI.

He added: “This is a wonderful example of organisations pulling together in support of our NHS colleagues and I am delighted we at Maggie’s has been able to play a part.”

An NHS spokesmsn added:  “It’s great to see local businesses like Wood stepping up to support our frontline workers across the north-east in these difficult times.”

“The support we’ve received from a host of businesses and organisations is truly heartening. This gift reflects our long-standing partnership with Maggie’s and ensures the donation of 6,000 protective face masks are shared with those in vital need across Aberdeen.”

Meanwhile, optometrists across Grampian are urging anyone with concerns to get in touch with modern technology allowing remote consultations to take place.

The health board’s optometric advisor, Stephen McPherson, said: “Our message is clear – the NHS is still open for business at the point of need, and in this case, anyone who has concerns or queries about their eye health should contact their community optometrist immediately.”

“The number of eye health issues which can be dealt with through a video consultation is remarkably high – and if an emergency procedure is required we can carry that out too.”