SVI produce thousands of gowns for the NHS during pandemic

At the beginning of the pandemic, it became clear there was a shortage of PPE for frontline workers. 

As an innovative UK based manufacturing business, the team at Steve Vick International were eager to help. The question was, how could they help? It did not take long before the answer became apparent, they could supply gowns to a Bristol hospital. 

 After investigating with a contact at the hospital, it transpired that they were running critically short of gowns. The SVI in-house sewing department, an essential part of the company’s manufacturing process, were well equipped to help with this request.  More used to sewing products for the gas distribution networks, they did not let that stand in their way, they were only too keen to volunteer their time and talents to help.

After sourcing the correct material, producing a prototype, and seeking approval from the NHS, the sewing team set to work. To date, over 2000 gowns have been sewn and sent in batches of 100-200, to the hospital. 

 As active members of their local community, SVI also supported other organisations including, Hack the Pandemic, a pop-up PPE factory based in Bristol, by providing hundreds of 3D printed headbands for face shields.  In addition, SVI also helped Dorothy House Hospice collect and deliver charity donations to their shops, and distributed Foodbank deliveries for The Hub, Bradford upon Avon.  

Crock Harrison, Managing Director at Steve Vick International commented “When the pandemic started there was an overwhelming response from members of the team that they wanted to do something to help.  Being an innovative manufacturing company, we have some of the latest technology and equipment which is highly adaptable for use on products outside of the gas and water industries.  It was great that our staff were able to adapt and put their skills and equipment to good use during such unprecedented times”.