A rail worker in the East Midlands has been supporting vulnerable people and making face visors for NHS staff during the COVID-19 crisis.

Val Stephenson is a Level Crossing Manager in the region and is based in Derby. As a key worker, she is one of the thousands of Network Rail workers helping to keep the railway running during the Coronavirus crisis.

When working, Val makes sure level crossings operate safely, so people who cannot work from home can use the railway to get to their jobs.

In her spare time, Val has also been creating face visors to help protect NHS staff. The parts have been produced using a 3D printer and then shared with volunteers who can make the vital protective equipment at home.

Val shared the 3D pattern with workers at Network Rail to get more staff involved producing them.

The group have created over 3500 visors, which have been sent to Derby Hospital critical care unit and local care homes. They will be used at the Swadlincote assessment centre that is currently being set up.

What did they say?

Val Stephenson, Level Crossing Manager for Network Rail, said:

“Keeping the railway running during this time is absolutely vital, but I also really wanted to do my bit in the community to support vulnerable people. We have a great team of volunteers who make up the Hartshorne Helpers, and I enjoy helping those who can’t get out.

“We wanted to support the amazing work done by NHS staff at Derby Hospital and in local care homes. I’ve quickly learnt how to put the face visors together, which will also provide extra protection at the new Swadlincote assessment centre.

“It’s great to see people across Network Rail getting involved to support the NHS during these challenging times.”

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