Melton student makes NHS scrubs from bed sheets

Oliver Roberts (17) has been confined to his family home since the coronavirus restrictions were imposed by the government back in March.

He suffers from cystic fibrosis, a genetic condition which affects the lungs, digestive system and other organs, and sufferers are considered ‘extremely vulnerable’ to severe illness if they contract Covid-19.

Oliver spends some of his time studying A-level work set by teachers at Melton Vale Sixth Form College.

But he was keen to do his bit to help the NHS as well as staff cope with the unique challenges they currently face.

“I do a textiles A-level at the college and I was in touch with a teacher about using a sewing machine to help the NHS,” said Oliver, a former pupil at the town’s Brownlow Primary and John Ferneley College.

“I heard about an appeal for people to make hospital clothing and got in touch.

“I said I was only 16, which I was at the time, but that I wanted to get involved and they sent me a set of instructions back.”

Oliver’s family have a number of bed sheets which no longer fit a new mattress so he decided to use those.

He makes tops and drawstring trousers and has so far sent off three sets to staff at The Whittington Hospital in London.

Oliver, who has a twin brother called James, said: “I’ve used four double sheets and three single sheets so far and I still have more to use.

“The staff have thanked me for them and it is nice to know they are useful.”

Oliver’s efforts led to him being contacted by Melton MP Alicia Kearns, who wanted to make him one of her weekly ‘unsung heroes.

She has congratulated him for ‘going above and beyond to help our community heal from the pandemic’.

Oliver added: “When I read her email I was a bit shocked at first and it made me a little bit emotional.

“I’m glad that I can help the NHS and I plan to continue making the scrubs.”