Local IT company transforms tech to ‘print’ vital PPE for Cheshire care workforce

Founders of a local IT support company have converted their Hooton-based business into a production hub of vital PPE after finding an innovative new use for their 3-D printing technology.

Based at flexible workspace centre, BizSpace Hooton, the couple behind the local Nortwork Network firm saw the national demand for PPE turn critical and sought out the opportunity to help, experimenting with their resources to create face visors.

After the successful creation of a series of masks from the printer, Kevin and Sheila set up a GoFundMe page to raise funds for a second printer to make sure they could meet the huge demand due to the crisis. The site had only been live for six hours when they hit their original target but it has remained open for further donations for the project.

They have now converted their business into a makeshift production line, working with three 3-D printers and supplying face visors to The Royal Liverpool Hospital, The Dales Vet, three local GP practices and a local ambulance depot that covers the Chester area. To ensure production continues around-the-clock to fight the pandemic, Kevin works through the night, waking up every two hours to ensure visors continue manufacturing.

Kevin and Sheila Bonney have decided once production is no longer required the extra printers will be donated to a local charity or community project.

You can continue to support Kevin and Sheila’s work by donating via the GoFundMe page:

https://www.gofundme.com/f/y38c5-3d-printer-purchase

Emma Long, Managing Director North at BizSpace, said: “This is a true inspiration and such an encouraging example of how the business community is coming together at this time of need. Such innovation and altruism in the face of adversity makes us proud to be part of the Britain’s small business industry and to have Kevin and Sheila as customers.”