Lichfield-based charity sends care equipment to Ukraine in support of war-affected patients

Grace Cares, the not-for-profit social enterprise committed to making care more sustainable, has delivered a van load of essential care equipment to Ukraine.

The equipment will support patients affected by war-related trauma, amputation and post-surgical recovery.

The donation was made in partnership with frontline medical volunteers, Driving Ukraine, and humanitarian organisations working directly in conflict zones, ensuring the items reach those who need them most.

While Grace Cares primarily serves the UK by redistributing surplus care equipment to individuals, care homes, and community groups, this international donation supports their wider goal of reducing waste in the care sector.

The shipment includes mobility aids and trauma-support items.

Items such as walking frames, crutches, wound dressings, catheters and stoma care kits were all unable to be reused in the UK due to minor cosmetic damage, changes in infection control standards, or equipment upgrades.

However, they remain fully functional and potentially life-saving in the right setting.

“We are heartbroken by the continued suffering caused by the war in Ukraine, and when we were asked if we could help, we knew we had the right resources to offer,” said Emma Smith, co-founder of Grace Cares.

“These are items that are no longer usable in the UK – often due to missing parts or not meeting updated NHS standards – but they still have value and purpose.

“This is about compassion, dignity, and doing what we can to help, while staying true to our mission of sustainability.”

Previous humanitarian convoys have included defibrillators, ECG machines, and ultrasound units donated by UK hospitals, many of which were replaced due to system upgrades or had superficial issues such as cracked casings or worn wheels.

“Much of the medical equipment we send out has cosmetic faults or has been replaced by newer versions – but is still entirely usable,” said Steve Eccleshall, one of the Ukraine convoy organisers from Driving Ukraine.

“We’re grateful to Grace Cares for responding so quickly and generously. Every item they’ve provided will make a difference to people who have lost so much.”

Grace Cares ensures all international donations are carbon-offset and only send equipment that cannot be redistributed within the UK.

Pictured: Emma Smith, Ron Ashby and Pippa Moor from Grace Cares