Local groups putting their needles to work to create face masks

A strong focus has been placed on the importance of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for those caring for patients in hospitals and health settings around the world.

Due to demand, there has been a scarcity of these essential items, but in Derry and Inishowen, many have stepped up to the plate to bridge the gap between need and supply.

Buncrana designer Luke Barber and Marjorie McDaid of MMD Embroidery in Clonmany are two people who are helping to coordinate dedicated teams right across Inishowen, with over 1,500 masks already made and many delivered to the places that need them most.

Luke was inspired to help after he received a facebook message from a local nurse, who asked for his help in sourcing or creating face masks. She told him how there was a real need for the items. Luke researched how the masks were created and found there were a number of stringent regulations to adhere to. He drafted up a pattern and made three masks for the nurse, before putting a post on Facebook which urged anyone who needed a mask to get in touch.

“It went crazy,” he said,

“I had two nurses from Sligo ringing me about then, with one saying: ‘I am pleading with you.’ It prompted me to set up a group of people who wanted to sew the masks.

“People have been amazing,” said Luke. “They have been so kind in offering their time. The demand has been crazy and I really was not expecting it. It’s frightening how badly people are in need.”

Marjorie McDaid has also been overwhelmed with the kindness and generosity of all who are willing to help - not just sewers, but those who cut and donate fabric and deliver the masks.

As soon as people found out she was making masks, she was inundated with calls and messages from others who also wanted to do so. The orders also started coming in ‘thick and fast.’ To date, there are over 40 of the ‘Inishowen Mask Makers’ who have created 1,084 masks.

“It’s amazing. People are cutting if they can’t sew. They are donating materials and elastics- people are coming together big time. I received a phone call from George at First Class Blinds who said he wanted to help. He said he had machines and women ready to roll from around Inishowen and Derry and he has been out helping with the deliveries. There are so, so many people who are helping. “

Both Luke and Marjorie outlined that the masks are not the standard N95 masks and this is communicated to all those who order them. However, the majority of orders have come from those on the front line and the feedback has been hugely positive. Masks have gone to hospitals, community hospitals and nursing homes, among others. The creation of the masks has ‘sparked a real interest’ for Luke and he is continuing to research their creation.

“I do think it would be great if we could get them manufactured in this country. They should be part of every first aid kit.”

The making of the masks, which are all free, is also providing a much welcomed distraction and focus for many people amid the uncertainty surrounding the pandemic. The process all adheres to social distancing and restrictions. Material and patterns are all left either outside homes or at a location where they can be picked up. “Everyone is being so kind and this is really all about them and how they’re helping and giving their time,” said Marjorie.

Luke told how he is also happy to see the textile industry coming to the fore and both he and Marjorie were full of praise for all the sewers and the community, which has come together to help others.

Luke said: “Medical staff are a credit to this country, both north and south.

“It’s also putting a smile on my face seeing how people and small businesses are doing everything they can to provide for people. We want to do this as long as we can. This is just a small insight into what is a great need.”