What impact might a temporary mortuary have on residents nearby?
We are doing all we can to ensure that the impact on nearby residents is minimised from the outset. The sites have been chosen to limit the numbers of people affected and these facilities will only be deployed if necessary. The facility is very strictly controlled, and it does not pose any risk to residents […]
What about registering deaths and arranging funeral services?
Devon Registration Service will now be conducting death registrations by telephone. The process will be the same for deaths from coronavirus or for any other reason. Current guidance for members of the public can be found on Devon County Council’s COVID-19 births, deaths and ceremonies page. Funeral services can be arranged by contacting funeral directors […]
I’ve heard local authorities are planning temporary mortuaries, is that true?
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 […]
Where can I find useful information?
Devon County Council’s Communications Team is working hard to supply our residents with timely and factual information through local media outlets, our website and our own social media accounts. We only share information that has come from trusted sources like the NHS, UK government or Public Health England. Please take the time to look for […]
Are council workers essential workers?
Yes. Local authorities provide a range of essential services that need to be maintained during the current crisis. These include highways maintenance, waste collection, social services and care. Staff are being redeployed to help deliver new services we have set up to support our communities.
Who is Devon County Council working with?
The Local Resilience Forum includes Cornwall Council, the Council of the Isles of Scilly, Plymouth City Council, Torbay Council, the Environment Agency, the NHS and the emergency services. Together we will be working on our response to COVID-19 across each of our areas so that we can share information, resources and knowledge.
What is the role of a local authority?
Local authorities have a critical role in emergency planning to ensure that they can respond to emergency situations in their areas. To do this they need to prepare, often through undertaking risk assessments, planning for recovery and working with the emergency services and other agencies. They are members of their Local Resilience Forum (LRF).
What is emergency planning and why is it needed?
Emergency planning is a normal part of any local council’s responsibilities. It covers events such as extreme weather, critical incidents, terrorist attacks and pandemics. It sets out clear roles and responsibilities for managing incidents and communicating with the public. In the current situation, emergency planners review core services and how they can be managed in […]