How a young Jarrow business owner is helping those on the frontline of the coronavirus pandemic

Josh Trueman, 20, has been making face mask clips to help those wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) to secure the masks more comfortably.

After seeing a call for volunteers online to make the clips, Josh, who runs laser cutting and engraving business JT Workshop in Jarrow, knew he would be able to help.

Since starting the effort around three weeks ago, Josh has managed to make more than 10,000 clips which have been given out to NHS and care workers across the UK.

And the response has been overwhelming, with those on the frontline saying that before the clips their ears would bleed from hours of mask wear.

Josh, who also started work at Aldi in Hebburn during the crisis, said he puts in 10-hour days to make the clips and work at the store.

He said: “I saw a post on Facebook asking people to help with the clips and as soon as I saw it I knew it was something that I had to do.

“I put a post on my business page asking people if they would like to sponsor me to help cover the cost of postage and materials – not to make a profit and it just went crazy.

“My goal was to make 1,000 but I have now made over 10,000 so I have smashed that target.

“People have been messaging me directly on Facebook for clip orders and I have been going to the post office everyday to get them posted out.

“They have gone to hospitals in Liverpool, London, Scotland, Kent, Essex and Wales – they have not just stayed local.”

And the unique design of the clips which features the outline of a heart to grip the hair, also inspired Josh to help others in another way.

He decided to use the MDF hearts that have been cut out of the clips to make ‘rainbow packs’ for families with youngsters to make rainbow creations.

And the idea has been a hit with families in lockdown, who have inundated him with messages asking for a pack.

Josh, who is helped with the postage and packing by mum Mandy Trueman, 46, said he has had many sponsors to cover the costs of the production but would be delighted to see the support continue.

He said: “The clips are relieving the pain of having surgical masks rubbing up against ears.

“Some care workers have said they have been in tears after shifts as their ears have been left badly cut, so the clips are making a real difference to people.

“The response has been amazing, people have been so grateful.

“I have had loads of messages and one lady in particular who had asked for 400 clips and was in tears when I told her they were free of charge.”

To order the clips or to sponsor the project message Josh on Facebook @JTWorkshopCraft

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