County council staff have been left shocked by a fire which has disrupted essential care services.
The fire, which happened at the Community Equipment Service forecourt in Maryport yesterday morning is being investigated by firefighters and police.
A 19-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of arson.
The blaze caused damage to five vehicles and has disrupted the delivery of important care equipment, like beds, hoists and other equipment needed to allow people to be safely discharged from hospitals, or to help people stay at home with their families and avoid them going to hospital.
The Community Equipment Service is part of Cumbria County Council’s Cumbria Care team.
Pam Duke, assistant director of provider services, said: “This shocking incident will really impact the vital work of the Community Equipment Service over the next few days.
“It is an added pressure at a time when the North health and care system is already under strain due to COVID-19.
“Our team have worked really hard to support people across Cumbria during this very challenging year.
“They are really frustrated it may delay deliveries to vulnerable people as we know how much distress this can cause.
“We already have replacement vans on their way, including using other county council vehicles to get things back to normal as quickly as possible.”
Patricia Bell, cabinet member for health and social care services, said: “We are really proud of all of our frontline Cumbria Care services including the Community Equipment service who deliver across Cumbria every day vital equipment to support people to be cared for safely at home.
“Any disruption to that is upsetting for everyone involved and although I know the service will be back up and fully functioning again soon it is yet another challenge that has to be dealt with in these still very difficult times.”
The police would like to hear from anyone who may have information regarding this incident.
To report any information please contact police on 101 or call CrimeStoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
