Vital personal protection equipment may run out in just a couple of days at Lincolnshire Hospitals.

Potential shortages of PPE has led the United Lincolnshire Trust to introduce 'contingency planning' in line with government guidelines, which campaigners say involves the re-use of some equipment.

An internal letter from its chief executive Andrew Morgan to hospital staff said ULHT currently has 'sufficient' levels of personal protection equipment, but it has 'concern' over its timely replenishment.

However, the same statement, tweeted on social media yesterday (Sunday) by Boston MP Matt Warman, also contains a table which says ULHT has just two days supply of fluid resistant masks, though a delivery of them in expected today (Monday).

As national media today warned of the NHS running out of gowns today, the trust said it had three days supply and suggested some equipment be re-used.

In addition to the current stock position, Mr Morgan also said trust staff have been confirmed with coronavirus and it was important existing staff followed PPE guidance in full.

In the statement, Mr Morgan told staff he was concerned to hear reports staff felt their safety was not being put first.

"I want to be very clear with you that your safety is your priority," he said.

He said trust was following national guidelines, which he said have been endorsed by the World Health Organisation, the Health and Safety Executive and the Royal Colleges.

The trust was working on ensuring it has enough PPE, which he said it did. But the trust had 'concern' over replenishing stock and was working with regional and national 'colleagues' to ensure regular deliveries to meet its needs.

Mr Morgan said the trust was following national guidance on contingency planning, details of which had been passed on to staff, and he apologised for the 'unnecessary alarm and concern' it caused them.

"To be clear, we do not have any immediate shortages of any PPE within ULHT. But the new guidance is in place in the event that we do."

Staff were not allowed to use their owns masks to ensure the same equipment is used and there was enough masks for them.

He added there are confirmed cases of coronavirus amongst staff and it was essential staff followed PPE guidelines.

"Please be assured that all decisions we make are with the safety of our staff and patients at the heart, and we will continue to keep you informed as guidance evolves and changes."

ULHT today declined to comment of Mr Morgan's letter to staff.

However, hospital campaigner Melissa Darcey of the Fight 4 Life Lincolnshire group replied to Mr Warman on Twitter: "I think staff concerns are very necessary. They fear for their lives. Would you want to do their job without proper protection?"