The National Health Service has a stockpile of personal protective equipment (PPE) including facemasks, respirators, protective eyewear, aprons and gloves. These are being ordered and delivered at speed daily so it is not possible to give a specific number as this is changing rapidly. The Department is confident that there is sufficient immediate stock. The central stockpiles held for European Union Exit and pandemic influenza have also been released for use. The Department is working with the NHS and others in the supply chain to ensure these are delivered to the frontline as soon as possible.

The Department is working with wholesalers to ensure a longer-term supply of all aspects of PPE.