Published on Friday 19 February 2021
The mortality support facility (MSF) that was activated as part of Dorset’s ongoing response to the current Covid-19 emergency has been placed on standby.
The MSF at Poole port was activated towards the end of January to deal with a surge of deaths across the hospital system during the last few weeks.
The MSF is 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.
The MSF has been staffed by RE:ACT Response Teams and BCP Council staff.
Cllr Nicola Greene, Portfolio Holder for COVID-19 Resilience and Public Health at BCP Council, said:
"I would like to offer my condolences to those who have lost family and friends during Covid-19. Thank you to our volunteers and staff who ensured the deceased were looked after with dignity at the site.
"Although the temporary site is standing down due to a decrease of deaths in the area, I would encourage our residents to continue to follow national guidance, including to self-isolate if you or your family are showing any symptoms."
Councillor Spencer Flower, Leader of Dorset Council, said:
"We are pleased that residents of Dorset have observed the Government’s rules, and this means that our infection rates are reducing. But can we ask everyone to continue the good work to keep everyone safe.
"My heartfelt thoughts go to those people who have lost loved ones during this dreadful pandemic."
Find more information about registering deaths and funerals in the Dorset Council area, during this pandemic and in BCP Council area.
Anyone grieving and in need of help and support can contact Cruse Bereavement Care or call their helpline on 0808 808 1677.