Commenting on the announcement that free personal protective equipment (PPE) for frontline health and care staff has been extended for another year, the deputy chief executive of NHS Providers, Saffron Cordery said:

"We welcome this decision to extend the offer of free PPE for frontline health and care staff until the end of March next year.

"Trust leaders will particularly welcome this outcome as the safety of their staff and patients is a top priority, and PPE helps prevent the spread of nosocomial infections.

"This important step also means trusts won't be inundated with extra significant burdens around procurement and finances at this very challenging time."