Call to arms for Lancashire manufacturers to produce much-needed ventilators

The chairman of the Lancashire Enterprise Partnership, Steve Fogg is urging Lancashire's manufacturing companies to help in the battle against Covid-19 through the production of ventilators amid concerns that the NHS does not currently have enough in stock to cope with the anticipated demand as cases increase.

Steve Fogg said: ''Lancashire has a significant and world-class manufacturing base with the flexibility, skills and expertise and are well placed to rise to the challenge during this time of national crisis.

"I would therefore urge all those companies with the supply chain and production capabilities to contact the Government to register their interest. Lancashire manufacturers are renowned for their ability to adapt, innovate and respond.

"Not only will our companies be helping from a public health perspective, they will also be providing a degree of comfort to those employed in the sector during these highly unsettling times.

‘’In these unprecedented times, now than more than ever we need to listen to Government advice and collectively – as businesses and individuals - help the NHS cope with the crisis it is about to face as demand for services increases.

"Helping the NHS to fight this virus may be through applying our considerable manufacturing and engineering skills to produce ventilators or by working flexibly wherever possible. The advice from Government issued last tonight, which has introduced more stringent rules restricting the movement of people, shows the seriousness of the situation.’’

Manufacturers interested in helping out are urged to contact the BEIS Business Support Helpline on 0300 456 3565 or to visit https://ventilator.herokuapp.com where they will be asked to provide basic information on the capabilities and experience of their companies.