Coronavirus: Gosport charity closes its doors for 4 weeks to ensure it survives Covid-19 pandemic

Jacob’s Well Care Centre has been run by the Pottinger family for more than 28 years, providing furniture, food and school uniforms for people in need.

As they experience a dramatic drop in furniture sales, the self-funded charity has decided to close for four weeks, starting from Friday.

Lorraine Pottinger, who took over the charity from her parents, said: ‘Our takings have gone from £500 a day on average right down to £5.

‘We have had to take the decision to close before we’re forced to close. At the end of all this we want to have a charity left.

‘It’s just such a shame that right when we’re going to be needed, we have to close. That’s what’s giving me sleepless nights at the moment.’

They would normally open six days a week to provide food to those who need it, but it is not possible currently.

It is hoped this will only be a temporary measure, and the staff are still putting together food parcels for people in the community who need some extra support at this time.

‘The important thing is that everyone’s kept safe,’ said Lorraine.

‘All the time we have got it we will give it. Within a week the whole charity is upside down.’

Although it is uncertain what the future will hold for the charity, Lorraine is staying positive.

She told The News: ‘When we get out the other side, I’m going to arrange a big street party

‘The message to the community is thanking them for their support, this is not the end, I will try my hardest to come back from this.

‘My staff are so loyal and they go above and beyond to help, even though they know they’re not going to get any wages they’re still doing what they can.’

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