Coronavirus: Autism and learning disability day service closed in Portsmouth

Make, run by the Aldingbourne Trust and based in Fratton, will be closed from today to help limit the spread of Covid-19.

The centre, which launched in 2017, is home to a charity shop, cafe and also a variety of workshops.

A statement from the Aldingbourne Trust said: ‘In accordance with the latest government guidance regarding social distancing in order to slow the spread of Covid-19, the Aldingbourne Trust have regretfully taken the decision to close our day services including Aldingbourne Country Centre, Number 73 and Make in Portsmouth to the public as of today until further notice.

‘As a result we are cancelling our planned Mother’s Day and Easter events - the safety of our staff, people we support, volunteers and members of the public remains our priority. We appreciate the impact this could have on the people we support and we are working closely with individuals and their families to minimise social isolation.

‘We are planning to operate a support line for people to call in for advice, we will be phoning people regularly to check in and will be maintaining our social media sites and posting content and encouraging people to interact.

‘We would like to reassure anyone who has already booked for one of our pre-paid events that we will be in contact shortly to arrange a refund and would like to thank those of you that have kindly donated your pre-paid monies to our charity. Your continued support is appreciated.

‘We appreciate these are very uncertain times, we will continue to circulate communications via our social media platforms and website. I would like to reiterate our priority is to ensure the safety of the people we support, our volunteers, staff and visitors and we will be responding to the government guidance as it becomes available and we will update you regularly as the situation develops.’

Anyone needing further information should call 01243 542075 during office hours Monday – Friday or email [email protected]

Coronavirus: the facts

What is coronavirus?

Covid-19 is a respiratory illness that can affect lungs and airways. It is caused by a virus called coronavirus.

What caused coronavirus?

The outbreak started in Wuhan in China in December 2019 and it is thought that the virus, like others of its kind, has come from animals.

How is it spread?

As this is such a new illness, experts still aren’t sure how it is spread. But similar viruses are spread in cough droplets. Therefore covering your nose and mouth when sneezing and coughing, and disposing of used tissues straight away is advised. Viruses like coronavirus cannot live outside the body for very long.

What are the symptoms?

The NHS states that the symptoms are: a dry cough, high temperature and shortness of breath - but these symptoms do not necessarily mean you have the illness. Look out for flu-like symptoms, such as aches and pains, nasal congestion, runny nose and a sore throat. It’s important to remember that some people may become infected but won’t develop any symptoms or feel unwell.

What precautions can be taken?

Washing your hands with soap and water thoroughly. The NHS also advises to cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough or sneeze; put used tissues in the bin immediately and try to avoid close contact with people who are unwell. Also avoiding touching eyes, nose and mouth unless your hands are clean.

Sources: World Health Organisation and NHS