AMBULANCE chiefs said there were no ‘adverse incidents’ in East Lancashire due to crews refusing to take on overtime shifts last week as part of a national pay dispute.
There were significant delays for some patients, however, which has affected North West Ambulance Service’s performance against response targets.
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About 21 ambulances in the Cumbria and Lancashire region were out of action due to the overtime ban, but bosses said the impact was more noticeable in Manchester, which had 35 vehicles off the road.
Army personnel and voluntary organisations were called in to provide cover in some areas.
Derek Cartwright, director of operations, said last week: “We do rely on the goodwill of our staff to volunteer for overtime shifts to cover sickness, annual leave and vacancies and when that offer is withdrawn, it does have an effect on patients.
“So we can reach as many patients as possible, we are having to rely on volunteer services to assist the Trust and while we are very grateful for their help, this is not an ideal situation.”
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