Temporary mortuary set up to cope with extra deaths during Covid-19 pandemic

The new facility is being set up in Winklebury, Basingstoke, and will become operational on Thursday to support the four major NHS hospital mortuaries across the county.

John Coughlan, chief executive of Hampshire County Council, said: ‘While our hospitals and funeral sector are currently coping, we are regrettably seeing significant pressures within the system.

‘We have therefore decided that it is prudent now to open the temporary mortuary to ensure that we are able to carefully manage and respond to any increase in demand for additional capacity.

‘I would like to reassure the families and friends of those who may be accommodated temporarily at this facility that their loved ones will be afforded every possible care, dignity and respect, and that we have been liaising closely with faith leaders to ensure required customs and practices are observed.’

He added: ‘I am sure we all understand why this step is now necessary.

‘There can be no sadder or stronger reminder of our collective need to follow the rules and keep ourselves and others safe.’

SEE ALSO: Covid deaths in care homes

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