Sadly, over the last couple of weeks the number of Covid-19 deaths in Dorset has increased rapidly and to cope with this the Poole port site is to be used for a mortuary.

The facilities are part of the Excess Deaths Operational Plan, a multi-agency strategy that sees representatives from BCP Council, Dorset Council, H M Coroner, Dorset Police, University Hospitals Dorset Foundation Trust, Dorset County Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and  funeral directors working together to make sure the potential bereavement needs across the county are identified and met.

Cllr Nicola Greene, portfolio holder for COVID-19 resilience and public health at BCP Council, said, “Our hospitals continue to be under a huge amount of pressure, with over 550 people in hospital with COVID-19 in Dorset in the last reported figures. The recent rise in cases in our community has meant that heartbreakingly, we have also seen an increase in deaths.

“We hoped that we wouldn’t need to use this extra capacity, but it is now required.

“It is absolutely vital that we all continue to follow the rules and stay at home. “Remember that one in three people with COVID-19 do not have any symptoms.”

Cllr Spencer Flower, leader of Dorset Council, said, “We appreciate that this topic is a difficult one for everyone, but the devastating impacts of this disease are now being felt. Please remember to socially distance, wear a mask when required and wash hands regularly. Together we can help to beat this horrible disease and get back to normal as soon as possible, by everyone playing their part and sticking to the rules.

“We want to reassure residents that the activation of this Mortality Support Facility is being established as part of our duty to respond to the current situation and we will make sure that loved ones are treated with care and respect.”

Anyone grieving and in need help and support can contact Cruse Bereavement Care or call their helpline on 0808 808 1677.