A WOMAN from Auchinleck is appealing to all spring-cleaners for donations of ladies’ blouses and men’s shirts so she can use the material to make sustainable dignity aprons for local care homes.

Michelle Kirkpatrick will be donating the practical aprons free of charge but is looking for assistance in getting more garments together so she can provide in bulk to care home residents.

An ex-care home worker and a real dab-hand at sewing and dress-making, Michelle knows how vital dignity aprons are in care centres and how a brighter or more stylish design can make the act of wearing one a bit less daunting.

Michelle said: “Having worked in care homes, I know how it can be a bit degrading for residents having to wear an apron so I put a post up to see if anyone local who still works in care thought it would be a good idea. Already I have had three local care homes and a dementia unit in Paisley contact me to say they would love some. I then received four bags of donations in two days.

Cumnock Chronicle:

“I made scrubs for the NHS at the start of lockdown because my business is dependent on mass gatherings so I went from working 100 hours to zero hours. I thought if there was ever a time to do it then it is now.

“The aprons will look like an item of clothing but will have a hidden waterproof backing as well so they are practical for their purpose. People seem to be providing more menswear so it would be good to receive more ladieswear.”

Michelle estimates she could have a single apron ready in around 15 minutes and assures that she will be adhering to COVID safety regulations at all times while making, preparing and delivering the garments.

To donate, contact michellekirkpatrick@outlook.com