1/7 Reports from a number of trusts that their supply of clinical gowns is
getting tight and we're aware that this is in the public domain. We've checked position with national leaders and thought it would be worth doing a short thread to set out the position as we understand it.

2/7 National leaders tell us that they believe there are sufficient stocks of gowns already in the system and due for delivery shortly. But distribution is still “lumpy” – i.e. gowns likely to be in significant supply in some places but in short supply in others.

3/7 National leaders say that, on this basis, important for mutual aid to kick in and for trusts with significant supply to share appropriately with others. National leaders keen for all trusts to review their current gown stock levels and support colleagues accordingly.

4/7 National leaders say trusts can share appropriately, confident that further deliveries of gowns scheduled to arrive shortly. We have argued that it would be helpful for trusts to have more detail on current and estimated future stock levels / delivery timings.

5/7 National leaders say it's also important for all to observe recent guidance change on gowns – they only need to be changed every session, as opposed to change for every patient apart from surgery (see detailed guidance). This means a much lower usage rate.

6/7 We also understand that gown alternatives will be available for delivery as a backup. This includes “coveralls” which are already popular with some staff groups, for example paramedics.

7/7 We’ve been struck by how, compared to other nations, we don’t seem to be having a debate about sustainability of PPE stock. Greatest PPE risk is running out of stock at some point so important for all to understand their role in ensuring long term sustainability of supply.