SCHOOLS, nurseries and childminders across Wirral will receive starter packs of Personal Protective Equipment, to help them welcome children and young people back safely.

Provided by Wirral Council, they include fluid-resistant surgical facemasks, disposable aprons, disposable gloves, hand sanitiser and full-face splash visors.

The packs have been compiled by the council's facilities management team who, alongside existing duties, have also managed the collection process and made some home deliveries when needed.

Paul Boyce, director for children, families and education said: "We understand the importance of getting children back into educational settings, however we must do this with safety at the forefront of every decision.

"We're supporting and working with educational settings every step of the way with their planning.

"The PPE starter packs and other materials will hopefully take a little pressure off until they have their own supplies in place.

"This is being done to keep both children, young people and staff safe, which is the most important thing.”

Alongside the PPE kits, schools and early years settings are being provided with a pack including the latest Public Health advice and guidance to support the phased reopening.

The council's communications team and printing services have developed a bundle of materials which every setting is entitled to, the cost of which will be covered by the council.

It includessocial distancing banners, posters aimed at children and young people, staff health posters and floor markings.

Wirral’s educational settings are working up their own individual plans and safety assessments with support of the council, to look at how and when they will safely be able to reintroduce children and young people, in line with government advice.