An urgent appeal has been launched to find Cumbrian companies and people who can help the national effort to combat coronavirus.

The Government has asked Cumbria Chamber of Commerce to ask its members if they can help meet the increased demand for ventilators.

Julian Whittle, the chamber of commerce's business engagement manager, has sent an email to all the chamber members, asking for help.

Rob Johnston, chief executive of Cumbria Chamber of Commerce, said: “We’re doing what we can to help.

“Cumbria has a wealth of manufacturing talent and expertise.

"There may well be people and businesses here who can assist in the national effort to contain the coronavirus outbreak and I hope they won’t be shy in coming forward.”

The Cabinet Office is looking for people who have worked for any of the following:

  • Medical device company or a supplier to medical device companies
  • Pharmaceutical company or a supplier to pharmaceutical companies
  • Companies that sub-contract or make components for any of the above
  • Companies that manufacture critical components likely to include air compressors, sheet metal, pipes, valves, couplings, flow sensors, power supplies, industrial automation/testing.

If you, or any of your staff have experience of working for these types of business, and are willing to help, send your details to commercialtalent@cabinetoffice.gov.uk as soon as possible, by noon today,

They are also keen to speak to component manufacturers or suppliers with the follow capabilities:

  • Air compressors/pumps
  • Bellows
  • Self-inflating bags
  • Gas mixing valves
  • Pressure regulators
  • Flow control valves
  • Solenoid valves
  • Pressure relief valves
  • Check valves/one-way valves
  • Industrial automation components
  • Power supplies
  • Electric motors and motor controllers
  • Linear actuators and controllers
  • Tubing and fittings
  • Pressure sensors and indicators
  • Oxygen sensors and indicators
  • Flow sensors and indicators
  • Manometers
  • Heat and moisture exchanging filters (HMEFs)
  • Air filter, HEPA filters