Yes, it is part of the role of local authorities to plan for all sorts of emergencies. We are working with the NHS, funeral directors, faith groups and other partners to manage the pandemic effects.
We sincerely hope that with the social distancing measures in place, the temporary mortuary will not be needed. However the scale and speed of this pandemic means we have to put in place arrangements to ensure our existing mortuary facilities are not overwhelmed.
These facilities are a necessary and important precaution to protect public health and reduce risks to NHS staff, council workers and people working in the funeral business. Security arrangements are in place to guard the sites.
We are working hard to make sure that, should they pass away, people’s loved ones will be looked after with care and dignity.
It is vital that we all continue to follow government advice and guidance on social distancing and #StayHomeStaySafe