bbcuk--2020-03-21--Coronavirus: Thousands of extra hospital beds and staff

The NHS has struck a deal with private hospitals to acquire thousands of extra beds , ventilators and medical staff to fight the coronavirus outbreak .
An extra 8,000 hospital beds across England , nearly 1,200 ventilators and almost 20,000 fully qualified staff will be available from next week .
It comes as the number of people in the UK to die with coronavirus rose to 233 .
The agreement will see the private sector reallocate almost its entire national hospital capacity to the NHS .
The extra resources will also help the NHS deliver other urgent treatments .
According @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more than 5,000 confirmed cases of coronavirus in the UK .
The number of people with coronavirus who have died is now 220 in England , seven in Scotland , five in Wales and one in Northern Ireland .
The most recent 53 deaths in England were people aged 41 to 94 who had underlying health conditions , NHS England said .
• When will the coronavirus outbreak end ?
• Coronavirus information : What should I do ?
• Coronavirus : What are the symptoms ?
• In pictures : First day @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the extra resources includes more than 2,000 hospital beds and more than 250 operating theatres and critical beds .
The additional staff includes 10,000 nurses , more than 700 doctors and more than 8,000 other clinical staff , who will be joining the health service to help manage an expected surge in cases , said NHS England .
Chief executive Sir Simon Stevens hailed the deal with the private sector .
He said : `` We 're dealing with an unprecedented global health threat and are taking immediate and exceptional action to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ doing everything in its power to expand treatment capacity and is working with partners right across the country to do so . ''
Under the terms of the deal , the private sector will be reimbursed at cost , meaning no profit will be made for doing so .
`` Open book '' accounting and external auditors will verify the public funds being deployed .
The NHS often uses private sector facilities when the need arises .
But the mass purchasing of these resources is unprecedented .
The ventilators will be crucial in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ % of people who developed symptoms are likely to need hospital care - and a third of those intensive care support .
There are nearly 4,000 adult critical care beds in England currently .
These extra ventilators will add to the hundreds freed up by the move to cancel routine operations from April , as well as steps to source others from elsewhere including the Ministry of Defence and old and new stocks .
David Hare , chief executive of the Independent Healthcare Providers Network , said : `` We have worked hand-in-hand @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do whatever it takes to support the NHS in responding to this pandemic . ''
He added the independent sector `` stands ready '' to maintain that support for as long as needed .
• What could the West learn from Asia Shortly after the NHS announcement , Spire Healthcare released a statement confirming it had signed up to assist NHS England for a minimum of 14 weeks .
The independent UK hospital group said it would spend the first week preparing staff and facilities before making all its 35 hospitals in England @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It added that it would be suspending all non-urgent elective surgery for patients over the age of 70 and vulnerable patients from 5:00 GMT on 20 March .
The NHS deal comes as a consultant warned that frontline NHS staff risked `` cross infecting everybody '' because they are not getting the recommended protective equipment .
The face mask , short gloves and apron worn by NHS staff is far short of the World Health Organization recommendations , said Dr Lisa Anderson of St George 's Hospital in London .
• A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
• GETTING READY : How prepared is the UK ?
• MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak Earlier this week , professional health bodies wrote to 65,000 former doctors and nurses who have left the NHS in the last three years , asking them to rejoin the workforce .
Health Secretary Matt Hancock welcomed Saturday 's announcement and praised the `` heroes returning to the front line '' .
On Tuesday , NHS England announced that its hospitals across the country would be taking a range of actions to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the overall 100,000 beds available by postponing non-urgent operations and providing care in the community for those who are fit to be discharged .
The NHS is also sourcing up to 10,000 beds in independent and community hospitals , which this deal largely now delivers .
• Shoppers have been told to `` be responsible '' and think of others such as NHS workers , after widespread panic-buying .
The government also said there is no shortage of food • John Lewis is the latest High Street shop to close all of its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stay open , apart from those in department stores at Watford , Southampton and Bluewater • Sandwich chain Pret a Manger has announced the closure of all its 400 UK outlets from Saturday evening • Trade unions and a former minister have called for financial help for self-employed workers in the UK .
It comes after the government promised to pay 80 % of salaries of staff kept on by employers • The Big Issue magazine - which sells around 60,000 copies every week - will stop being sold from next week • @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in central London to protect them against the virus , the Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said • Children are putting up paintings of rainbows in their windows after schools closed on Friday • A hotel in the Scottish Highlands which laid off staff and asked them to leave their accommodation has said the decision was an `` admin error '' • The death toll passes 11,000 worldwide , as confirmed cases of coronavirus pass 280,000 • In Italy , deaths continue to spiral as figures show another 793 people with coronavirus have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bringing the total to 4,825 • Spain also saw a record number of deaths in one day , a rise of 324 bringing its total to 1,326

These extra ventilators will add to the hundreds freed up by the move to cancel routine operations from April, as well as steps to source others from elsewhere including the Ministry of Defence and old and new stocks.


bbcuk--2020-03-21--Coronavirus: Shoppers told to buy responsibly

Shoppers in the UK have been told to `` be responsible '' and think of others such as NHS workers , after panic-buying amid the coronavirus outbreak .
Environment Secretary George Eustice said there was more than enough food to go around - but the challenge for shops is keeping shelves stocked .
It comes as supermarkets have been overwhelmed by increased purchasing .
Another 53 people with coronavirus have died in England , bringing the total of deaths in the country to 220 .
Meanwhile , cafes , pubs and restaurants across the UK have closed as part of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ And , on Saturday night , the National Trust announced it was closing its parks and gardens from midnight `` to help restrict the spread of the coronavirus '' .
`` Frankly we should all be ashamed , '' said Prof Stephen Powis , medical director at NHS England , who said panic-buyers are depriving NHS staff of the supplies they need .
`` These are the very people that we all need to look after perhaps us or our loved ones in the weeks to come . ''
Earlier this week , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ video appeal for people to stop panic-buying and leave some goods for others who need to stay healthy .
Also speaking at the news conference in Downing Street on Saturday , the head of the British Retail Consortium , Helen Dickinson , said : `` There is plenty of food in the supply chain . ''
`` The issue is around people and lorries '' getting food onto shelves quick enough , she said .
• What are shops doing about stockpiling ?
She said the food industry was experiencing `` a peak @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but `` without the four-month build-up period . ''
`` There is £1bn more food in people 's houses than there was three weeks ago , so we should make sure we eat some of it , '' she said .
Mr Eustice said the government recognised it was a `` challenging time '' but that `` buying more than you need means others may be left without . ''
He added : `` There 's no shortage of food .
Food manufacturing has geared up to meet an increase in demand and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Asked whether he can rule out rationing or ration books , Mr Eustice said it was up to supermarkets to decide whether to put limits on how much of each item shoppers can buy .
Some supermarkets have already imposed limits after some members of the public started buying items like toilet roll in bulk .
And many stores including Tesco , Asda , Aldi , and Lidl have said they are hiring thousands of staff to meet the unprecedented demand .
Tesco , the UK 's biggest supermarket , said it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` to help feed the nation '' .
Labour said the government had been too slow and too quiet to reassure people that were was enough food .
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• STRESS : How to protect your mental health • MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak Prof Powis , of NHS England , also reiterated the importance of people avoiding social contact .
`` It 's not for somebody else to follow , it 's for you to follow , it 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for everybody to follow , '' he said .
`` This is all our problem and if we do it together , it will be an effective strategy .
If you do it , you follow the advice , you will be saving somebody 's life .
`` This is the time in your lifetime whereby your action can save somebody 's life .
It is as simple and as stark as that . ''
• Trade unions and a former minister have called for financial help for self-employed workers in the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to pay 80 % of salaries of staff kept on by employers • John Lewis is the latest High Street shop to close all of its stores .
However , Waitrose shops will stay open , apart from those in department stores at Watford , Southampton and Bluewater • Sandwich chain Pret a Manger has announced the closure of all its 400 UK outlets from Saturday evening • The Big Issue magazine - which sells around 60,000 copies every week - will stop being sold from next week • Homeless people will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ protect them against the virus , the Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said • Children are putting up paintings of rainbows in their windows after schools closed on Friday • And a hotel in the Scottish Highlands which laid off staff and asked them to leave their accommodation has said the decision was an `` admin error '' • The death toll passes 11,000 worldwide , as confirmed cases of coronavirus pass 275,000

"This is all our problem and if we do it together, it will be an effective strategy. If you do it, you follow the advice, you will be saving somebody's life.


bbcuk--2020-03-21--Coronavirus: Dancers with Down’s syndrome vow to carry on

A group of dancers with Down 's syndrome say they are determined to carry on performing , even though they were no longer allowed to meet in person .
Members of Project 21 - a musical theatre charity - have started sharing videos with each other , dancing in their bedrooms .
They normally meet weekly in Ipswich and Colchester to sing and dance .
They were due to perform during half-time at Saturday 's Ipswich Town match to mark World Down 's Syndrome Day .
However , the celebration - and the match - were cancelled due to coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ released a video which it hopes will lift people 's spirits .
Founder Alex Munn said : `` Our group was built on the basis of providing a support network and lifeline for families , so being in isolation on our big day is desperately sad .
`` However , in the true spirit of Down 's syndrome , our community refuses to let this dampen our celebrations and we hope these virtual sharing groups bring love and hope whilst reminding our members they are never alone . ''
The members said the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , while they have to be physically apart .
Sharon Hobbs , whose son Kyle attends the Ipswich group , said it was `` so important '' they could still connect and friendships could `` continue to blossom during this isolating time '' .
Other parents said it made sure their children could look forward to being together again one day soon .

"However, in the true spirit of Down's syndrome, our community refuses to let this dampen our celebrations and we hope these virtual sharing groups bring love and hope whilst reminding our members they are never alone."


bbcuk--2020-03-21--Coronavirus: Self-employed need financial help, unions warn

Financial help is urgently needed for the five million self-employed workers hit by the coronavirus pandemic , trade unions and a former cabinet minister have urged .
Conservative MP David Davis said the economy could suffer a near `` fatal seizure '' if they were not protected .
The government is to pay 80 % of salaries of staff kept on by employers .
But Treasury minister Stephen Barclay said it would be `` operationally '' hard to protect self-employed incomes .
He said the self-employed were being helped by measures such as the deferral of self-assessment tax requirements , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ strengthening of the welfare `` safety net '' .
Frances O'Grady , general secretary of the Trades Union Congress , told the BBC 's Today programme that the lack of measures put in place for the self-employed `` will cause real hardship unless we get to grips with it '' .
The cinema workers ' union Bectu said the measures were a `` devastating blow '' to its freelance and self-employed members and that workers needed `` much more '' support than was promised .
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prepared is the UK ?
• MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak Chancellor Rishi Sunak , who announced the support package on Friday at the daily coronavirus briefing with the PM , said closing pubs and restaurants would have a `` significant impact '' on businesses .
But he added the government intervention - covering wages of up to £2,500 a month - would mean workers should be able to keep their jobs , even if their employer could not afford to pay them .
However , there was not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ self-employed people in the UK .
Instead , Mr Sunak increased benefits that many will have to fall back on .
Mr Davis said it was vital the chancellor found a way of extending support to the self-employed .
`` It is absolutely necessary .
Without this the whole of the British economy will have a seizure - almost a fatal seizure in economic terms , '' he told the BBC .
`` It is great for those who have got jobs but it does miss out a pretty important sector of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he ( Mr Sunak ) is going to have to find a way of replicating this for the self-employed as well . ''
It is understood the government 's wage subsidy will apply to firms where bosses have already had to lay off workers due to the pandemic , as long as they are brought back into the workforce and instead granted a leave of absence .
The news was welcomed by UK business leaders who expressed `` relief '' after the government committed to pay the wages of employees unable to work @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Confederation of British Industry , the UK 's biggest business group , said it was a `` landmark '' offering from the government .
`` It marks the start of the UK 's economic fightback - an unparalleled joint effort by enterprise and government to help our country emerge from this crisis with the minimum possible damage , '' director general Carolyn Fairbairn told BBC Newsnight .
Nik Antona , national chairman of the Campaign for Real Ale ( Camra ) , said many pubs had been `` hung in limbo '' and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their doors is the right thing to do '' and gave owners confidence that the government would support their staff and their business .
The government had been under growing pressure to intervene to support workers to prevent mass unemployment as a result of measures directed against the outbreak .
But some business groups warned of the potential risk to firms if they had to wait for the money to arrive , with some businesses facing rent payments before the support is due .
The wage package is the latest in a series @ @ @ @ @ @ @ burden on businesses and their employees .
Paul Johnson , director of the Institute for Fiscal Studies , said it was not yet clear how many people would take advantage of the government 's offer , but he estimated that for every 1 % of private sector workers who do , it will cost about £1bn .
`` So if , for example , 10 % of private sector workers do , it 's £10bn over three months and if it 's 20 % then it 's £20bn , or thereabouts , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ programme .
This move is an incredible intervention for any British government , let alone a Conservative one , but proportionate to the size of the terrible , but temporary , economic impact that could follow the coronavirus shutdowns .
In theory , it should save hundreds of thousands of jobs .
Perhaps more .
Employers have to accept that the government is doing something they would have never imagined a UK government to do .
At 80 % cent of wages up to £2,500 a month , it is a scheme more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Scandinavian countries .
It instantly transforms the social safety net of this nation .
The new measures came as Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the closures of cafes , pubs and restaurants would be enforced `` strictly '' and that the situation would be reviewed each month .
He also announced that all the UK 's nightclubs , theatres , cinemas , gyms and leisure centres had been told to close `` as soon as they reasonably can '' .
`` The more effectively we follow the advice we are given , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ medical and an economic recovery in full , '' the prime minister said .
It follows similar measures taken in other countries - including in Ireland , where pubs and bars were asked to close from last Sunday .
Meanwhile , the number of deaths in the UK rose to 177 on Friday - with 167 in England , six in Scotland , three in Wales and one in Northern Ireland .

"It is great for those who have got jobs but it does miss out a pretty important sector of the economy - namely the self-employed - and he (Mr Sunak) is going to have to find a way of replicating this for the self-employed as well."


bbcuk--2020-03-21--Coronavirus: Man in court over fake Covid-19 treatment kits

A man has appeared in court charged with making fake kits which claimed to treat Covid-19 .
Frank Ludlow , 59 , was arrested in a post office near his home in West Sussex on Friday , the City of London Police said .
He was arrested by the force 's Intellectual Property Crime Unit after it was contacted by US counterparts .
The kits allegedly contained harmful chemicals which people were being told to use to rinse their mouths with .
Mr Ludlow has been charged with one count of fraud by false representation , one count of possession @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one count of unlawfully manufacturing a medicinal product .
He appeared before Brighton Magistrates ' Court on Saturday and was remanded in custody until 20 April , police said .
Police officers have urged people to only seek advice from a registered healthcare professional .
Tariq Sarwar , from the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency , also said people should only buy medicines they need from an authorised seller .
He added when buying online to beware of illegitimate websites and suspicious URLs .
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the symptoms ?
• CONTAINMENT : What it means to self-isolate • HEALTH MYTHS : The fake advice you should ignore • MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak

Mr Ludlow has been charged with one count of fraud by false representation, one count of possession of articles for use in fraud and one count of unlawfully manufacturing a medicinal product.


bbcuk--2020-03-21--Coronavirus: NHS staff protection 'short of WHO guidelines'

Frontline NHS staff risk `` cross infecting everybody '' because they are not getting the recommended protective equipment , a consultant has warned .
The face mask , short gloves and apron worn by NHS staff is far short of the World Health Organization recommendations , Dr Lisa Anderson of St George 's Hospital , London , said .
Former Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt told the government to `` sort this out '' .
The PM has said work was continuing to get more personal protective equipment .
She said that the government had changed the rules to deviate from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ staff wear a full gown and visor .
Since Monday , staff in the NHS only have to wear a simple face mask , short gloves and a pinafore apron , Dr Anderson said .
• NHS staff 'at risk ' over lack of protective gear • What is the UK 's plan and what could happen next ?
• Buy responsibly and think of others , shoppers told Mr Hunt told the programme : `` We are asking people to put their own lives at risk on the NHS frontline .
We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what is happening in Italy .
`` It is absolutely heartbreaking when NHS frontline professionals do n't have the equipment they need .
`` I think the government has done a lot in the last week .
I think they have unblocked the supply chains , but there is this question about whether it 's the right equipment . ''
NHS staff told the BBC this week there was not enough protective gear and that not enough of them were being tested for the virus .
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ How prepared is the UK ?
• MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak Mr Hunt said there were still `` gaps on the frontline '' and added that questions remained over whether doctors should wear full hazmat suits .
Dr Anderson said that in Italy , which has seen the highest number of deaths from the virus , health workers have run out of stock and that nearly 10 % of the health care force is infected .
She questioned the risk posed by not enabling healthcare staff to sufficiently @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just about the risk to ourselves and our family , we are travelling home on the Tube , on buses , '' Dr Anderson said .
Sainsbury 's is expanding its reserved 08:00-09:00 slot for elderly , disabled and vulnerable customers to NHS and social care workers , after panic-buying this week led to shelves being cleared of produce .
But Dr Anderson warned of the health implications by such a move .
`` Sainsbury 's this morning has announced that they are opening up the early hours to frail , elderly and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ everybody at the moment , '' she said .
`` There 's a lack of protection for us , but it extends to a lack of planning of how to segregate patients from clean and dirty , how to protect us and keep us away from the public and doctors have no faith in what 's going on . ''
Asked during Prime Minister 's Questions about the shortage of personal protective equipment ( PPE ) , Boris Johnson said : `` Our NHS should feel that they are able to interact with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` There is a massive effort going on , comparable to the effort to build enough ventilators , to ensure that we have adequate supplies of PPE equipment not just now , but throughout the outbreak . ''
The BBC has contacted the Department of Health and Social Care for further comment .

"There's a lack of protection for us, but it extends to a lack of planning of how to segregate patients from clean and dirty, how to protect us and keep us away from the public and doctors have no faith in what's going on."


bbcuk--2020-03-21--Coronavirus: Man proposes in Iceland store

A nurse proposed to his girlfriend in a branch of Iceland after a romantic trip to the country of the same name was cancelled due to the coronavirus .
Robert Ormsby popped the question in an empty aisle after their holiday to Reykjavik was called off on Monday .
Patsy Murdoch said `` yes '' , but admitted she was `` laughing hysterically '' as he got on one knee in the Tonbridge store .
A photo of the proposal has gone viral and the couple said they were happy to spread some joy at this tough time .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cheer somebody up by doing something that was just a humorous thing to make up for what we were going to miss , '' said Mr Ormsby , a charge nurse at Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust .
The couple , both 58 , was on their way to dinner when he nipped into Iceland under the pretence of picking something up .
`` I was actually looking for an empty aisle , '' he said .
As he dropped on one knee , his partner `` looked embarrassed at first , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and he `` popped the ring on her finger , '' he said .
The couple , from Sevenoaks , Kent , had bought the ring together and Ms Murdoch said she had been a `` bit suspicious when his suit went on '' earlier in the evening , but expected the proposal would be made at the restaurant .
`` I was thinking 'what do you want in Iceland ? '
I did n't twig for a minute and then suddenly he went down on one knee ... .I was just laughing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ works for Hospice in the Weald , added : `` It was very exciting . ''
She said the online response had `` gone berserk '' and had been a welcome distraction from the impact of the pandemic .
`` We all need a bit of distraction at the moment , '' she added .
The couple posed for a photograph near the checkout as they left and gave permission for the company to post the images on social media .
`` It 's kind of gone a bit crazy since then , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ worked for the frozen food firm in the 1980s .
Mr Ormsby , who now works in operating theatres , said he would like to use the attention to praise the hard work of colleagues preparing for the worst of the outbreak .
Anaesthetists are the `` frontline people for this '' , he said , adding that it was `` frightening and reassuring at the same time '' to see the lengths they have gone to , to get ready for when the crisis hits .
• EASY STEPS : How to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ What are the symptoms ?
• GETTING READY : How prepared is the UK ?

Anaesthetists are the "frontline people for this", he said, adding that it was "frightening and reassuring at the same time" to see the lengths they have gone to, to get ready for when the crisis hits.


bbcuk--2020-03-21--Coronavirus: 'Be responsible when you shop and think of others'

The Environment , Food and Rural Affairs Secretary George Eustice has urged people not to buy more food than they @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus briefing he said that there is no shortage of food available , but the @ @ @ @ @ as people change their shopping behaviour .

The Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Secretary George Eustice has urged people not to buy more food than they need.
At the daily coronavirus briefing he said that there is no shortage of food available, but the challenge is keeping shelves stocked as people change their shopping behaviour.


bbcuk--2020-03-21--Coronavirus: Seaside visitors defy social distancing advice

Thousands of people have been heading to seaside attractions in the sunshine despite government advice to avoid social gatherings due to coronavirus .
One beach in Sussex is to close , while Lincolnshire 's police and crime commissioner called for caravan sites and arcades in Skegness to shut .
PCC Marc Jones said there were `` hundreds of thousands of visitors '' .
West Wittering Beach was being shut at 18:00 GMT after `` thousands '' of people turned up , the estate office said .
There are also reports of large crowds along the East Yorkshire coast .
Other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were also reported to be busy .
Mr Jones said it was `` time for everyone to be socially responsible or be made to be '' .
Local councillor Jimmy Brookes said it was `` madness , '' adding : `` Skegness is packed , cafes and arcades are open . ''
A member of the management team in West Wittering said : `` The crowds were into the thousands - dispersed on to the large beach - but it 's the method of getting here ... we 're at the end of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in and one way out . ''
Police in Cumbria had earlier warned tourists not to travel to the Lake District and urged them to follow the government 's advice on social distancing , which is intended to slow the spread of coronavirus .
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• CONTAINMENT : What it means to self-isolate • HEALTH MYTHS : The fake advice you should ignore • MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak Skegness dentist Dr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ practice last week over the coronavirus outbreak , said many local businesses were `` acting like nothing is happening '' .
In a video posted on Facebook he called for caravan sites and businesses to close and people to remain at home .
`` I was appalled to see as I drove home Skegness looking like it does on a busy summer day , '' he said .
`` I view these actions as massively , massively socially irresponsible and I personally think those involved should be ashamed of themselves . ''
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ town .
We have a cottage hospital supported by two main district hospitals and this is a disaster waiting to happen . ''
On Friday Butlin 's announced it was closing its Skegness resort as well as its sites in Bognor Regis and Minehead .
Lincolnshire Police said : `` We expect business owners will want to support the measures designed to keep us all safe .
`` If officers see specified businesses open , they will remind them of the government advice . ''
However , in Lewes , Sussex , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ farm shop following the orders for pubs to shut , and urged customers to keep a distance from each other .

A member of the management team in West Wittering said: "The crowds were into the thousands - dispersed on to the large beach - but it's the method of getting here... we're at the end of a peninsula, there's one way in and one way out."


bbcuk--2020-03-21--Seventh Scottish coronavirus patient dies

Another patient has died in Scotland after testing positive for Covid-19 , bringing the total number of deaths to seven , the Scottish government confirmed .
The total number of Covid-19 cases is now 373 , an increase of 51 on Friday .
The figures also reveal 8,259 tests have been carried out across Scotland .
NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde now has 110 cases - up 19 - followed by NHS Lanarkshire with 49 and NHS Lothian with 44 .
Cases have been recorded in 12 of the 14 health board areas , with the exception of NHS Western @ @ @ @ @ @ @ First Minister Nicola Sturgeon warned the Scottish people were facing the `` biggest challenge of our lifetimes '' in the fight against coronavirus .
She addressed the nation after Prime Minister Boris Johnson confirmed compulsory closures of restaurants , cafes , pubs , gyms and cinemas .
The escalation in social distancing measures came at the end of a week of major announcements including the closure of schools and the postponement of exams , for the first time since the system was set up in 1888 .
In her speech , Ms Sturgeon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was `` set to rise sharply '' .
She urged people to follow social distancing advice to save lives and reduce pressure on the NHS .
• EASY STEPS : What should I do ?
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• CONTAINMENT : What it means to self-isolate

The escalation in social distancing measures came at the end of a week of major announcements including the closure of schools and the postponement of exams, for the first time since the system was set up in 1888.


bbcuk--2020-03-21--Coronavirus: Call for widespread testing of all key health workers

Unless there is widespread coronavirus testing of all key health workers , there will not be a functioning health service , a senior nurse has warned .
Pat Cullen , head of the Royal College of Nursing in NI , wants testing extended so nurses can be confident they are free of Covid-19 .
Testing is currently limited to those admitted to hospital with symptoms .
Meanwhile , the police are calling on young people to listen to the official social-distancing advice .
It comes after officers had to deal with several large outdoor gatherings of teenagers across Northern Ireland @ @ @ @ @ @ @ closing .
Ms Cullen was speaking after a two-hour meeting with Deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill at the RCN HQ in south Belfast .
The nurse also said proper safety equipment and masks for staff were needed urgently .
Ms O'Neill echoed the remarks on testing and equipment .
She said she had spoken to a nurse who has to self-isolate for 14 days because a member of her family has symptoms .
She said if she had been tested and found negative , that nurse could be back at work .
• @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• CONTAINMENT : What it means to self-isolate • HEALTH MYTHS : The fake advice you should ignore • MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak Health officials have confirmed 22 new cases of Covid-19 in Northern Ireland , bringing the total to 108 .
One person has died .
It is the highest one-day jump in cases since the outbreak began in Northern Ireland .
According to the latest figures , there are more than 5,000 confirmed cases of coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people with coronavirus who have died is now 220 in England , seven in Scotland , five in Wales and one in Northern Ireland .
On Saturday night , Prime Minister Boris Johnson warned the health service could be `` overwhelmed '' if people did not act to slow the `` accelerating '' spread of coronavirus .
He also urged people not to visit loved ones on Mother 's Day .
There were 102 new confirmed cases in the Republic of Ireland on Saturday , bringing the total to 785 .
Three people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ venues including pubs , restaurants and gyms , also closed following an order from Prime Minister Boris Johnson .
On Friday night , PSNI officers reported having to disperse about 300 teenagers in areas across Carrickfergus and Larne .
Police said 95 % of the young people they spoke to `` were polite , respectful and headed home when we explained the dangers of social gatherings '' .
`` This is not a movie .
This is not a what-if exercise , '' the local PSNI branch wrote on Facebook .
In north @ @ @ @ @ @ @ young people drinking and setting fire to residents ' bins .
A PSNI spokesperson encouraged the public to `` review the advice of the Health Minister Robin Swann , consider the health of others and adhere to the social distance practices outlined by the health department ” .
Koulla Yiasouma , Northern Ireland 's children commissioner , said while it was `` hard and confusing '' for young people , many of whom had been `` robbed of so many things '' , it was vital they followed public health advice .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , there is no longer adults and children , young and old , us and you , there is just us - we are in this together and we must work together with this one chance we have to stay as safe and healthy as possible , '' she said .
Meanwhile a respiratory consultant at the Ulster Hospital has gone viral on social media after making a `` personal plea '' for people to heed advice on social distancing .
Dr Julia Courtney said it was `` hard to actually convey just @ @ @ @ @ @ @ looming for the NHS , and so for everyone , in the next few weeks '' .
`` Huge numbers of people will die and the only thing that will have any impact on this impending catastrophe is slowing the spread of this virus .
`` This is the week that the most people who are infected without knowing it will cause the virus to spread . ''
She added : `` What you do today will affect the intensive care unit ( ICU ) beds in the hospitals in the next two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , please , please , stay at home if you can . ''
Health Minister Robin Swann has confirmed childcare will continue for parents who are key workers and have childcare needs .
Some schools will reopen on Monday for the children of key workers , with the Department of Education issuing fresh guidance saying there is no limit to the number of children schools can take as long as it is safe .
In a letter to the childcare sector on Saturday , Mr Swann confirmed childcare would continue for parents who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Mr Swann said officials in his department were working on guidance for daycare facilities , child minders and parents .
In other developments on Saturday : • Hastings Hotel Group has said it has rescinded redundancies given to staff earlier in the week .
Trade union Unite had criticised the firm for the lay-offs which , it said , came after the chancellor 's announcement of salary relief for employees .
The group 's managing director , Howard Hastings , said staff should be assured that they `` remain on the books @ @ @ @ @ @ @ biggest makers of life-saving ventilators , Medtronic , is to more than double the 250-strong workforce at its Galway plant to meet the huge rise in demand

"From now and until this crisis passes, there is no longer adults and children, young and old, us and you, there is just us - we are in this together and we must work together with this one chance we have to stay as safe and healthy as possible," she said.


bbcuk--2020-03-21--Coronavirus: Action urged as travel advice ignored

People should be banned from travelling to second homes and caravan parks should be shut down , Plaid Cymru leader Adam Price has told the first minister .
In the letter to Mark Drakeford , Mr Price called for action , echoing calls from other politicians and GPs .
Travel is one of many restrictions in place since the coronavirus outbreak .
The Welsh Government has warned second-home owners and caravanners they could face action by ignoring advice not to travel unnecessarily .
Mr Price said concerns had been raised about `` a large scale population shift '' into generally @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` I am asking that you now take urgent steps to avoid unnecessary additional pressure on our health and social care system at this difficult time . ''
Calls have previously been made for people not to come to Gwynedd , which has more second homes than any other county in Wales .
But now neighbouring Anglesey council has told all tourists to stay away from the island until the outbreak is over .
The main concern is putting extra pressure on health services .
• Coronavirus : Students to be given paid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for people to avoid unnecessary travel and going to your caravan on the weekend does n't strike me as necessary travel , '' Health Minister Vaughan Gething said .
`` We 're asking people to be responsible .
And I really hope we take that advice seriously because I certainly do n't want our healthcare system in any part of Wales or indeed the UK to be overwhelmed by people moving around .
`` And that 's something that of course is within Wales as well .
There are plenty of people who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of our coastal areas .
`` We are of course taking it seriously and if we need to act , we are prepared to use the powers that we have , as we already demonstrated last night with the measures we took . ''
On Saturday , there were reports of social gatherings at Pen Y Fan in Brecon Beacons , Snowdonia in Gwynedd , and seaside resorts around Wales .
Anglesey council leader Llinos Medi said she was left with `` no other option but to urge visitors and tourists , including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stay away '' .
She added : `` We have seen a recent influx of visitors coming to stay in caravans or second homes on Anglesey .
`` They will undoubtedly put an immense extra strain on essential public services , including the NHS , which are already under tremendous pressure .
`` They must consider the implications of their actions on the people of Anglesey . ''
The calls have been echoed by Ynys Mon MP Virginia Crosbie and Clwyd West AM Darren Millar .
Ms Crosbie said : `` After several @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wrote to the prime minister asking him to re-affirm to the people of the UK that non-essential travel includes taking unnecessary holidays during a time of national crisis . ''
Darren Cornish , a lead GP at Criccieth , Porthmadog and Blaenau Ffestiniog surgeries , wants to see holiday parks closed .
`` I do n't think people understand the gravity of the situation , '' he said .
`` If people do travel , a number will be bringing the virus with them and expediting the process .
`` We need to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Chris Lloyd , from North Wales Mountain Rescue Association said people were being `` irresponsible '' going up mountains during the coronavirus outbreak .
`` We clearly were n't expecting a flood of people on Snowdonia today because we are actually trying to reduce the risk of team members having to deal with people who are possibly infected .
`` The message is simple - do n't go on the mountains if you have the virus or have been self-isolating because if you need to be rescued , mountain rescue may not be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• CONTAINMENT : What it means to self-isolate • HEALTH MYTHS : The fake advice you should ignore • MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak

"We are of course taking it seriously and if we need to act, we are prepared to use the powers that we have, as we already demonstrated last night with the measures we took."


bbcuk--2020-03-21--Coronavirus: Rainbow pictures springing up across the country

Pictures of rainbows have started springing up in windows after schools closed in response to the coronavirus outbreak .
Hundreds of schools are encouraging pupils to put up paintings to `` spread hope '' after a trend started online .
Though many of the buildings have closed , one head teacher said the school spirit was still very much alive with online lessons .
Schools across the UK shut on Friday to children of non-key workers .
A spokesman for Grange First School in Newcastle said : `` We are hoping to spread our cheerful windows campaign as wide as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in windows all over our area and beyond and will really help maintain morale for children ( and families ) in these difficult times . ''
Angela Ruthven , whose son Harrison made a rainbow , said it was `` a truly wonderful idea while we are all facing such worries with our health , our jobs and children 's education '' .
`` This has offered a positive approach , '' she said .
`` It 's bringing families together at home to create a rainbow , making people smile if they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bringing our wonderful school and even the world together .
`` It 's showing that we are all in this together . ''
Six-year-old Eva has `` Always loved painting rainbows '' according to her mother so leapt at the chance of joining her school 's campaign .
Shona Richardson , head teacher of Eva 's school in Rosewell in Midlothian , said : `` We did not want it all to be doom and gloom for the children .
`` We thought this would be a really visual way of bringing hope @ @ @ @ @ @ @ much out there .
`` It also sends a message to the elderly people to say we are thinking of you and hopefully it will give them some joy to .
`` These children wo n't be able to see their friends so much so it 's a way they can communicate together . ''
She said teachers were working from home and were in contact online with families .
`` We do not want families to be forgotten about just because they ca n't come into school , '' Ms Richardson said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we all said goodbye to one another .
`` It 's the unknown .
Breaking up for the holidays you know when you will be back together , but in this case we really do n't know . ''
Eight-year-old Tayen , who lives in Bridgwater , Somerset , also wanted to take part in the chase the rainbow trend .
Tayen , who has been blind since she was 22 months old and is currently undergoing chemotherapy , made a raised rainbow she could feel .
Her mother Kali said : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a machine so the surface is raised so she can feel it .
`` She coloured it in with paint sticks and her brothers helped her choose the colours - although she tells everyone its entirely pink .
`` She knows it 's up in the window and that it 's her picture and other people can enjoy it and she asked me to take a picture of it to send to family members we ca n't visit at the moment . ''
Isla , seven , and Archie , four , stuck @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their Bristol home .
Isla said : `` We 're making it because it might cheer people up . ''
Her mother Debbie Frost said : `` We are stuck in isolation and it got the kids thinking about arts , crafts and also about others and the impact we can have on them , even though we may never see them or come into contact with them . ''
Jo Tambie , of Hall Green , Birmingham , said her four children were prompted to create the rainbows as an antidote to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ daughter came up with the words 'be confident and be brave ' .
`` Those are words from an eight-year-old and I think it just makes you smile when you see it and quite emotional . ''
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• STRESS : How to protect your mental health • MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak

Her mother Debbie Frost said: "We are stuck in isolation and it got the kids thinking about arts, crafts and also about others and the impact we can have on them, even though we may never see them or come into contact with them."


bbcuk--2020-03-22--Coronavirus: Boris Johnson in Mother's Day warning amid concern for NHS

Boris Johnson has warned the NHS could be `` overwhelmed '' if people do not act to slow the `` accelerating '' spread of coronavirus , as he urged the UK not to visit loved ones on Mother 's Day .
The PM called on the public to join a `` heroic and collective national effort '' and follow social distancing advice .
The number of people who have died in the UK with coronavirus rose to 233 on Saturday , as cases topped 5,000 .
It comes as NHS England plans to write to 1.5 million people most at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ letters or text messages strongly advising them not to go out for 12 weeks to protect themselves , the government said .
They include people who have received organ transplants , are living with severe respiratory conditions such as cystic fibrosis or specific cancers , such as blood or bone marrow .
• What we do n't know about coronavirus deaths In a message to the country on Saturday evening , Mr Johnson said : `` The numbers are very stark , and they are accelerating .
`` The Italians have a superb @ @ @ @ @ @ @ doctors and nurses have been completely overwhelmed by the demand .
`` The Italian death toll is already in the thousands and climbing .
Unless we act together , unless we make the heroic and collective national effort to slow the spread - then it is all too likely that our own NHS will be similarly overwhelmed . ''
He said the UK is only `` two or three '' weeks behind Italy , adding that he recognised the government was imposing measures `` never seen before either in peace or war '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ There have been 220,000 cases of the virus worldwide with more than 9,000 deaths .
Italy has seen its death toll for the past month reach 4,825 , the highest in the world .
As families prepare to celebrate Mother 's Day on Sunday , Mr Johnson said the best single present for mothers was to stay away .
It comes after the government this week told all restaurants , cafes and pubs - as well as some other public spaces like gyms and cinemas - to close .
`` This time , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , video call her , Skype her , but to avoid any unnecessary physical contact or proximity , '' the PM said .
`` And why ?
Because if your mother is elderly or vulnerable , then I am afraid all the statistics show that she is much more likely to die from coronavirus , or Covid-19 .
We can not disguise or sugar-coat the threat . ''
• How can you celebrate Mother 's Day safely ?
• ' I lost my job because of coronavirus' On Friday , Mr Johnson was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he would be visiting his own mother , who is 77 .
He said he would `` certainly be sending her my very best wishes and hope to get to see her '' .
A Downing Street source later said his contact with his mother on Sunday would be over Skype .
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• STRESS : How to protect your mental health • MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak Meanwhile , the government has said members of the Armed Forces will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be delivered to people who are at-risk .
Those identified as the most vulnerable in their communities will be contacted directly as a priority .
Dr Paul Johnstone , from Public Health England , said : `` The NHS are contacting the people who are most vulnerable to developing a very serious illness as a result of Covid-19 with specific advice to stay at home for at least 12 weeks .
`` If you receive a letter it is vitally important that you act on it for your own protection , do n't @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and do n't go out for shopping , leisure or travel . ''
Elsewhere , Mayor of London Sadiq Khan echoed the PM 's call for social distancing , and described the coronavirus pandemic as the `` biggest health , social and economic emergency we have faced since the second world war '' .
Writing in the Observer , Mr Khan said while the UK was at the beginning of attempts to halt the viruses spread , `` we will be living with the consequences for many years to come '' .
An @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unprecedented challenge for government .
Over the last few days we have seen decisions made that would have been scarcely seemed possible just a fortnight ago .
There 's another one today - 1.5 million people in England alone will be told not to leave their homes to protect themselves from the virus .
The concern in government is set out by the prime minister .
His warning that the UK could be just a fortnight behind Italy - and that the NHS could be overwhelmed - is one of the starkest we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be so ; to persuade us all to follow advice , to stay home and help save lives .
The number of people with coronavirus who have died is now 220 in England , seven in Scotland , five in Wales and one in Northern Ireland .
The most recent 53 deaths in England were people aged 41 to 94 who had underlying health conditions , the NHS said .
• In the last 48 hours , thousands of retired medics have answered the government 's call to return to work to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nurses and 500 doctors .
Health Secretary Matt Hancock paid tribute to the `` brilliant support '' , but said `` many more '' medical workers were needed , • The health service announced it had struck a deal with private hospitals to get hold of thousands of extra beds , ventilators and medical staff , which will see the private sector reallocate almost of all of its national hospital capacity to the NHS .
• Churches across the country will deliver Sunday services to worshippers over the internet .
The Church of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now banned mass worship , with the Roman Catholic church issuing similar advice.. • The National Trust has closed its parks and gardens amid fears crowds might flock to them on Sunday for Mother 's Day .

On Friday, Mr Johnson was asked at his daily press conference whether he would be visiting his own mother, who is 77. He said he would "certainly be sending her my very best wishes and hope to get to see her".


bbcuk--2020-03-21--Coronavirus: Rough sleepers in London given hotel rooms

Hotel beds have been offered to rough sleepers in London to help protect them against coronavirus .
About 300 rooms were made available this weekend to vulnerable people already known to homelessness charities as part of an initial trial .
London Mayor Sadiq Khan 's office is working with Intercontinental Hotels Group ( IHG ) to block-book rooms at a discounted rate for the next 12 weeks .
It comes as Londoners and visitors stay away from central London .
On Friday , Prime Minister Boris Johnson ordered restaurants , pubs , cafes and leisure centres to close .
Instead @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hyde Park and Battersea Park .
Rough sleepers are significantly more likely to have underlying health conditions - including respiratory problems - than the wider population .
They are also far less likely to be able to follow Public Health England advice on self-isolation , social distancing and handwashing .
The rooms would provide `` vital protection '' for rough sleepers who could use the space to self-isolate , the mayor 's office said .
London Mayor Sadiq Khan said : `` Rough sleepers already face difficult and uncertain lives and I 'm @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ensure they , along with all Londoners , are given the best protection possible . ''
Petra Salva , director of rough sleeping services at St Mungo 's homeless charity , said teams were working around-the-clock to support people during the `` unprecedented crisis '' .
But Steve Folk , who walked around central London on Saturday handing out £400 he had received in donations to homeless people , said he was concerned many were struggling from the lack of donations now that people were distancing themselves from central London .
`` Usually @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people amongst working people and people who are housed , but now it 's unreal .
I 'd say half the people you see outside are homeless people .
They are left unable to self isolate , '' he said .
He added a Big Issue seller had told him he knew people that had been given a hotel room but were not using them .
`` There are a lot of people hanging out at Charing Cross Station still .
It might be that they are conditioned to be in that environment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are freaking them out or if they are looking for the social element [ of being at the train subway ] . ''
In central London there was a distinct lack of people , particularly in the West End where you would expect busy streets full of shoppers .
Instead , many shops , including those along Regent Steet , were closed while others allowed one in at a time .
Of the shops that were open , such as the Waterstones in Piccadilly , a fraction of the usual shoppers were browsing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other places , like along the Southbank or Richmond Park , with people feeling the need to get out and stretch their legs and take a look at the bizarre sight of empty cafés , pubs and closed tourist attractions .
Black cab drivers have volunteered to drive vulnerable people to hotels .
Steve McNamara , general secretary at the Licensed Taxi Drivers Association , said : `` London cabbies have always been there to help those in need and this current crisis is no different .
`` Black cabs are the right @ @ @ @ @ @ @ easily cleaned and sterilised , with a partition separating passengers from drivers .
From next week , the Big Issue will not be sold on the street to protect vendors .
The charity said it was working on a way to get money and food to its sellers , many of whom were homeless .
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• CONTAINMENT : What it means to self-isolate • HEALTH MYTHS : The fake advice you should ignore • MAPS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outbreak

"There are a lot of people hanging out at Charing Cross Station still. It might be that they are conditioned to be in that environment and I don't know if hotels are freaking them out or if they are looking for the social element [of being at the train subway]."


bbcuk--2020-03-22--Coronavirus: Church and religious services off across Wales

Hundreds of church services and other religious ceremonies have been cancelled this weekend in response to the coronavirus crisis .
The Church in Wales suspended all public gatherings , including Mothering Sunday services , earlier this week .
The Muslim Council of Britain and the Roman Catholic church issued similar guidance .
Archbishop of Wales John Davies said prayers could be shared online , with some services being streamed .
`` Churches are being encouraged to stay open during the day to offer space for people to pray in their own time , to find spiritual refreshment and reflection , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coming between people and their faith ?
• Funeral restrictions possible to cope with virus Speaking in his message for Mothering Sunday , the Archbishop also urged young people whose college courses or jobs have been suspended to put their time to good use to help others .
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• STRESS : How to protect your mental health • MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak '' If your plans for the day have been disrupted , if you 've got some @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to do other things , do n't waste that time , '' he said .
`` Whether you 're absent from university or college , whether you 're not at work - whatever may be the case- use the time that you have to do something positive . ''
Earlier this week , the Catholic church suspended gatherings for public acts of worship as of Friday , after the UK government advised against `` non-essential '' travel and contact .
The Archbishop of Cardiff , George Stack , called for all in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were `` heart-breaking '' times .
And guidance calling for the suspension of all congregational activities in UK mosques were released by the Muslim Council of Britain ( MCB ) earlier this week , affecting Friday prayers .
Meanwhile , the United Synagogue in the UK has also said religious gatherings should not go ahead .

"If your plans for the day have been disrupted, if you've got some time that you might have been using to do other things, don't waste that time," he said.


bbcuk--2020-03-22--Coronavirus: 'Unprecedented scenes' on Welsh hills

Car parks and trails could be shut to stop people from visiting Snowdonia National Park after `` unprecedented scenes '' on Saturday , according to bosses .
There were so many people on mountain summits it was `` impossible to maintain effective social distancing '' .
Pen y Fan in the Brecon Beacons was also busy with visitors on Saturday .
Welsh ministers are considering their legal powers to force people to stay away during the coronavirus outbreak .
It comes as seven more people in Wales died after contracting the virus , taking the total number of deaths to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Live updates on the outbreak There have already been calls from local politicians and medics to encourage second home owners and caravan owners to stay away from Wales ' holiday hotspots , where some people have travelled to self-isolate .
They also urged them to adhere to guidance on social distancing to prevent the spread of Covid-19 .
There have been similar appeals in Cornwall and the Scottish Highlands .
Snowdonia National Park Authority said its area `` experienced its busiest ever visitor day in living memory '' on Saturday .
And signs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ angered by the numbers of people passing through the Gwynedd town .
Snowdonia National Park Authority chief executive Emyr Williams said : `` The area has been overwhelmed with visitors .
`` More worrying still is the significant crowding on the mountain summits and trails making it impossible to maintain effective social distancing . ''
The authority is calling on the prime minister and first minister to provide `` stronger measures on unnecessary travel and social distancing , to ensure that we do not see a repeat of yesterday 's scenes across Snowdonia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ If no further steps are taken we will need to take drastic measures to protect the communities and health services in north Wales , such as shutting down car parks and trails . ''
Boris Johnson has warned the NHS could be `` overwhelmed '' if people do not act to slow the `` accelerating '' spread of coronavirus , as he urged the UK not to visit loved ones on Mother 's Day .
And Wales ' Health Minister Vaughan Gething tweeted to say that he and First Minister Mark Drakeford were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ directly intervene '' due to concerns about the influx of visitors to Wales .
Mr Drakeford told BBC Politics Wales the `` pace of the disease continues to quicken '' in Wales .
`` We need to take actions that will save lives , '' he said .
He also said people should only travel if they `` absolutely have to and keep your distance from others '' .
Mountain rescuers also made a desperate plea for walkers with Covid-19 , or who are self-isolating , not to venture on to the hills @ @ @ @ @ @ @ described it as an almost `` bank holiday '' atmosphere on the mountains and hills of north Wales on Saturday .
From Moel Famau in the east and in Snowdonia , people were out in force .
• Social distancing may be needed for ‘ most of year ’ • What we do n't know about coronavirus deaths Llanberis Mountain Rescue Team said it remained operational but the outbreak could have an impact on it being able to `` call a team together '' at times , with some of its volunteers in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spoke out after the team was called to rescue an injured climber after a group of four had travelled to the area from Surrey on Saturday .
Central Beacons Mountain Rescue Team said it was hampered when a path was blocked by cars near Ystradfellte waterfalls on Saturday .
EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• CONTAINMENT : What it means to self-isolate • HEALTH MYTHS : The fake advice you should ignore • MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seeking fresh air on the Welsh coast while coronavirus social-distancing measures apply have been warned against taking `` unnecessary risks '' .
The RNLI said beaches and coastal areas could see an increase in visitors over the weekend and beyond as people seek exercise in open spaces .
But the charity said the coast `` can also present dangers '' .
Chris Cousens , RNLI regional water safety lead , said : `` 'As with all public places , we 'd encourage people to follow guidelines provided by the government to maintain a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ good hygiene practices and avoid mass gatherings . ''
He said lifeboat stations and shops were currently closed to the public , but lifeboats and stations remain fully operational .
The RNLI told people to take note of signs at beaches advising of the local hazards , to check tide times to avoid being cut off and to check weather conditions before setting out as these can change quickly .

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bbcuk--2020-03-22--Terminally ill woman dedicates life to hedgehogs

A woman with terminal cancer has said she is going to dedicate the rest of her life to looking after hedgehogs .
Sue Bonnington , 58 , runs a `` hedgehog hospital '' from her home in Glen Parva , Leicestershire .
The former cancer nurse was herself diagnosed with the illness while training to run the London Marathon in 2017 .
She said the animals are in `` serious danger '' of extinction and caring for them makes her happy .
A `` state of Britain 's hedgehogs '' report , published in 2018 , revealed a 30 % @ @ @ @ @ @ @ urban areas since 2000 .
Experts say the animals are struggling with lost habitats , increased competition and traffic .
Ms Bonnington became `` fascinated '' with hedgehogs when she started volunteering at the Leicestershire Wildlife Hospital in 2016 .
After being diagnosed with cancer , she started helping them at her home .
Her patients are brought to her by members of the public and some even go directly to her for help .
`` I have lots of poorly hedgehogs walk up from the back gate and collapse at my back @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2017 a tumour was discovered in Ms Bonnington 's pelvis .
Since then it has spread to her liver and in May she was told her condition was terminal .
`` I 'm going to dedicate any time I have left to live to looking after these hedgehogs , '' she said .
`` It makes me happy .
When I get up in the morning I know I have to look after them . ''
Ms Bonnington rescued more than 40 hedgehogs in 2019 .
She hopes an online fundraising campaign and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will allow her to buy a large incubator to look after more of the animals and pay vet bills .
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Send your story ideas to eastmidsnews @ bbc.co.uk .

She hopes an online fundraising campaign and donations from Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service will allow her to buy a large incubator to look after more of the animals and pay vet bills.


bbcuk--2020-03-22--Runners going solo after coronavirus postponements

Runners who have seen events postponed due to the coronavirus outbreak are taking on their challenges remotely .
Many major races , including the London Marathon , have been put back until later this year .
But after months of long training runs , many participants are deciding to carry on with their challenge alone .
It is also helping some charities maintain the fundraising they may otherwise have lost .
Deb Meredith was due to take on the London Landmarks Half Marathon on 29 March but the event has been postponed , with a new date yet to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Local Landmarks Challenge , where people can take on the run remotely in their area , record themselves using a running app , then submit it to get a participation medal .
Ms Meredith was part of a small team taking on the run for the Shropshire charity Energize STW , and had raised more than £500 .
`` I was devastated , '' she said .
`` I had worked really hard to raise the money for the charity and had gone over my target . ''
She is now planning a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ I think it will be really hard , when it is a race , the atmosphere gets you through , ” she said .
“ You still want to achieve the target , but I am still hoping it will be rearranged for another date and I can do it , '' she said .
While Bath Half Marathon went ahead on 15 March , many people who had signed up chose to do the run away from the main event because of concerns about the virus .
Among them was Sahar @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , who instead ran the distance around Leamington Spa .
She said she was concerned about the impact bringing the race , which attracts 12,000 participants would have on the city in potentially spreading the virus so chose to stay away .
“ I was dreading it because the atmosphere really spurs you on , but I ended up enjoying it , ” she said .
“ I still had a lot of pride and achievement after.
” Rocking Horse Children ’ s Charity , the fundraising arm of the Royal Alexandra Children @ @ @ @ @ @ @ launched the Rocking Horse Hero campaign , to support the hospital during the pandemic .
Alex Marshall , from the charity , said “ It is partly trying to fill the gap in fundraising for things that are cancelled or postponed , but also to give people ideas of how fundraise if they are stuck at home or to do with the kids.
” Zoe Tickner , from Partridge Green in West Sussex , also had a place in the London Landmarks Half Marathon for the charity , and decided to run the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` When you have been getting up at 05:30 every morning to take the kids to school and before work , it has been cold and wet with the storms , and so many people have sponsored me , I did n't want to feel like all that training was wasted , '' she said .
`` It felt amazing once I had finished .
`` I am going to keep going out running for as long as we are allowed to and keep my fitness up . ''
• EASY STEPS : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• GETTING READY : How prepared is the UK ?
• MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak • TRAVEL PLANS : What are your rights ?

"When you have been getting up at 05:30 every morning to take the kids to school and before work, it has been cold and wet with the storms, and so many people have sponsored me, I didn't want to feel like all that training was wasted," she said.


bbcuk--2020-03-22--Coronavirus: Volunteers flock to join community support groups

More than 1,000 volunteer groups have been set up to help those self-isolating during the coronavirus outbreak .
Tens of thousands have come forward offering to pick up shopping or deliver medicine to the most vulnerable .
Covid-19 Mutual Aid UK , an umbrella organisation co-ordinating the groups , is itself run by around a dozen volunteers from south London .
Co-founder Kelsey Mohamed , 28 , said the response had been `` overwhelming '' .
`` It shows us what 's possible when we prioritise simple compassion , '' she said .
`` People are self-organising with incredible efficiency @ @ @ @ @ @ @ See the full list of support groups here Seren John-Wood , 24 , helped set up the first mutual aid group in Lewisham , south London , on 12 March .
The theatre worker and her housemates distributed leaflets around their local area asking if people needed food or medicine delivering .
Shortly afterwards , the friends decided to launch an umbrella organisation to guide the various groups around the UK .
Its website displays a map of known volunteer groups which have appeared in areas including Cornwall , Northern Ireland and Scotland @ @ @ @ @ @ @ others a neighbourhood , ward or town .
In Lewisham , the support network has grown so big those in need of assistance are marking their windows with a red piece of card .
There are now 4,000 members on the local Covid-19 Mutual Aid page .
Though people in need of them are being urged to be wary of potential scammers , especially when handing over money .
Nicola Spurr , 46 , who works for non-profit organisations , launched a WhatsApp group in Westminster on Saturday .
Hundreds of people quickly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the elderly , deliver medicine and walk dogs .
`` I 've lived in Lancaster Gate for two years and I 've never really spoken to my neighbours , '' she said .
`` London can be a bit like that , it can be a lonely place .
`` But we saw this huge outpouring of solidarity and neighbourliness straight away . ''
Dieticians , therapists and dementia specialists were among some of the people offering their services for free , she said .
In nearby Kingston , Councillor Olly Wehring has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ area .
`` Norbiton has always had a strong community feel , yet I 'm blown away by how many residents have offered to help , '' he said .
But there are concerns criminals could take advantage of informal set ups to exploit the vulnerable .
In Brighton and Hove , a councillor is creating an ID card with a space for a photograph to ensure the helper is who they say they are .
Mutual Aid is advising its groups to check up on helpers to make sure they have properly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ national group said : `` If you are giving or receiving help , tell someone , a friend , family member , or someone on this group , what the plan is .
`` Even if you think you 're the most savvy person ever , ask them if something sounds off . ''
In most cases the groups are providing hope to elderly residents who could be forced to self-isolate for four months .
Islington resident Hope Winter-Hall has a disability care package and is looking after her 92-year-old mother .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the NHS were overwhelmed before this virus hit , '' she said .
`` I am very well-prepared for months of isolation but I will be needing help before it is over .
`` Finding the Islington Mutual Aid group lifted our spirits and changed our view of the future . ''
BBC Local Radio stations across England are helping to keep communities connected during the Coronavirus crisis .
If you want to Make A Difference get in touch with your BBC Local Radio station at bbc.co.uk/makeadifference

A post to the national group said: "If you are giving or receiving help, tell someone, a friend, family member, or someone on this group, what the plan is.


bbcuk--2020-03-22--Coronavirus: 'I'm self-isolating - but I have 26 pen pals'

A teenager who is in self-isolation during the spread of coronavirus has said writing to pen pals is helping her to remain connected to other people .
Gracie Stewart , 17 , has notched up 26 pen pals after deciding she wanted a `` quirky '' hobby three years ago .
Eighteen months ago she was diagnosed with a rare leukaemia and Gracie said she planned to use her 12 weeks in quarantine writing more letters .
She urged others in a similar position to use the time to `` try something new '' .
The music performance student , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ treatment for chronic myeloid leukaemia and has been told it is incurable .
Gracie said she went into self-imposed isolation on Monday but her father has already posted a bundle of letters to her pen pals across the world .
`` My pen pal in Japan has been in isolation so I sent her something to say ' I hope you 're ok ' , '' she said .
`` It 's connecting with people and finding a common ground .
`` I 'm so happy that I chose it as a hobby @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• GETTING READY : How prepared is the UK ?
• MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak Her pen pals live in countries including Germany , France , Spain , Switzerland and Turkey .
Gracie said letters from her friends around the globe brightened up her days , even in more normal times .
`` It 's magical coming home after a really long stressful day - you can get an email or an Instagram DM - but when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that someone 's written with their heart and it 's got a tea bag in it and confetti and you open it on your bed - it 's a whole bright lovely moment .
`` They are all amazing .
It 's a little bit of magic posted through your door and it 's so beautiful .
I love it .
`` It 's such a wholesome lovely hobby and I truly recommend it . ''

"Everyone is quite scared and frazzled at the moment so to come together with others is the one thing you can do to stop yourself being lonely."


bbcuk--2020-03-22--Coronavirus: A couple, a campervan and a baby

With people being asked to avoid non-essential contact with others to prevent the spread of coronavirus , one couple has been left self-isolating in their campervan with their seven-month-old baby .
Laura Truepenny and Ben Humphreys , with their daughter Amala , were on a trip around Europe in their converted Volkswagen Crafter but had to cut their travels short after the outbreak worsened .
They are now residing in St Austell , Cornwall , where they are self-isolating for 14 days .
`` We 'd made it as far as Évora in Portugal when we started to get an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` When we went shopping , the shelves had started to empty and the campsites said they would n't be letting any new people enter .
`` We made the snap decision that night to drive nine hours to get to the French border . ''
It then took the couple a further 12 hours to drive to Rennes in France before getting a ferry from Roscoff to Plymouth .
`` We feel like we made it in the nick of time , '' Mrs Truepenny , from Torrington in Devon , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ What are the symptoms ?
• STRESS : How to protect your mental health The family were well into a planned year off to travel around Europe , and were set to return to the UK in May , so they were already well accustomed to keeping themselves entertained in the van .
`` It 's good because everywhere we go , we 've got our home , '' Mrs Truepenny said .
`` We know in places like Portugal and Spain , they 're stopping people from being able to drive around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of it whilst we still can .
`` We 're respecting people , making sure we 're not near anyone and keeping our distance as much as possible .
`` It 's highly unlikely we 're infected but we thought we want to do the two weeks because it 's protecting others . ''
The couple had some trial runs with baby Amala before embarking on their trip .
`` We got rid of one of the passenger seats to give us a bit more room and that 's been a game-changer , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can have her play mat out , she 's crawling around and we can put the picnic blanket outside to give her more room .
`` We love living in the van with our baby . ''
Mrs Truepenny is playing the ukulele and offering free tutoring on her Instagram page to keep herself busy during self-isolation .
`` We 've got loads of board games too , '' she said .
`` We 're both obsessed with food so that does keep us going because , when we 're a bit bored @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cakes , potato cakes and we always make sure we have a healthy dinner . ''
• Can you do outdoor sports while social distancing ?
• How can you celebrate Mother 's Day safely ?
Moving forward , the couple may have to stay with their parents - depending on how coronavirus progresses - but Mrs Truepenny said they were fairly self-sufficient .
`` We 've got an outdoor shower but it 's a bit cold in the UK for that , '' she said .
`` But we could probably cope @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ''

The family were well into a planned year off to travel around Europe, and were set to return to the UK in May, so they were already well accustomed to keeping themselves entertained in the van.


bbcuk--2020-03-22--Step-by-step guide: How to video call your family

If you are self-isolating at home , video-chatting can help you stay in touch with your friends and family .
This guide will show you how to make a video call using a smartphone , or receive one using your desktop computer - or help you explain how to do so to others .
How to video call with an Android phone If your phone is made by OnePlus , Google , Honor , Huawei , LG , Samsung or Sony , it is an Android phone .
Several other companies make Android phones too .
There are plenty of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ video calls including Google Duo , Facebook Messenger , Skype , WhatsApp and Zoom .
This guide will show you how to make a video call using WhatsApp .
To video call a friend using WhatsApp , they will need to have installed the app too - and you will need to add their phone number to your smartphone 's address book .
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• STRESS : How to protect your mental health • MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak How @ @ @ @ @ @ @ iPad or Mac If you have an iPhone , iPad or Mac computer , you can video call a friend using FaceTime .
The app comes pre-installed on all of these devices .
However , it only works on Apple devices , so your friend or relative must be using an iPhone , iPad or Mac too .
If your friend or relative does not use an iPhone , iPad or Mac , you can still video call them using a different app .
You can follow the instructions provided for WhatsApp at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to receive a video call without installing software You can receive video calls on a desktop computer without installing any software .
Some video-calling services such as Skype and Zoom will let you join a chat using your computer 's web browser .
To do this , you 'll need to be invited to a video call by a friend or relative who already has the software installed .
Ask them to follow the instructions in the video below , in order to send you an invite link by text message or email @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the link if you have spoken to your friend or relative and are expecting it .
If you are not expecting an invite , ask your friend or relative to double-check .

If your friend or relative does not use an iPhone, iPad or Mac, you can still video call them using a different app. You can follow the instructions provided for WhatsApp at the top of this page.


bbcuk--2020-03-22--Coronavirus: How to behave in an epidemic

The virus is exploiting our very humanity .
We are social creatures , but this disease risks turning our natural instincts into a fatal weakness .
Our old routines and habits must be replaced with new customs and practices .
We need to adjust to the etiquette of an epidemic .
So how should we behave ?
How can we be pro-social in a world where a comforting hand or a hug are considered anti-social or even reckless ?
In normal times we look to calm anxiety and stress with the human touch .
But these are not normal times @ @ @ @ @ @ @ enemy .
Every object we and others come into contact with may be a vector for the virus .
The right thing to do is deny this cruel bug the chance to spread .
`` This is the time in your lifetime whereby your action will save somebody 's life , '' Prof Stephen Powis , medical director at NHS England , said on Saturday .
None of this comes naturally .
It is not easy .
We can only do what is possible and we will never know , but the simple @ @ @ @ @ @ @ actually save one , two , 50 or 10,000 lives .
We should think of that as we sing at the sink .
• How the government hopes to stop you touching your face • Buy responsibly and think of others , shoppers told • When will the coronavirus outbreak end ?
We are having to learn to do things that feel discourteous , that once might have been thought of as rude .
But social distancing , trying to stand at least 2m apart from anyone you encounter , not shaking hands @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the new manners of our times .
And we need to learn them fast .
The way we all behave during this epidemic will decide the fate of millions .
That is why behavioural science is at the heart of the UK government 's planning .
The encouraging news for humanity is that the experts believe most people want to do the right thing for wider society .
`` Acts of altruism will predominate , '' the Behavioural Science Sub-Group advises ministers .
`` Large-scale rioting is unlikely .
It is rarely seen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ does occur , of course , sometimes driven by fear but also by thoughtlessness and greed .
Panic feeds on itself as people struggle to balance their own needs with those of others when the world feels an increasingly dangerous place .
That is what is driving anti-social stockpiling , people `` selfishly shopping '' as Prof Powis described it .
The behavioural scientists are telling the government to `` promote a sense of collectivism '' .
`` All messaging should reinforce a sense of community , that we are all in this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It is telling , perhaps , that countries with a collectivist culture - China , Japan , South Korea - seem to be keeping the virus at bay more effectively than those Western nations with a culture of individualism .
`` I know how difficult this is , how it seems to go against the freedom-loving instincts of the British people , '' the prime minister told the nation as he closed down pubs and restaurants on Friday , urging people not to go out .
Small-state politicians like Boris Johnson are having @ @ @ @ @ @ @ greater central control , actions that may feel at odds with the traditions and culture of the UK .
• When will the coronavirus outbreak end ?
• Coronavirus information : What should I do ?
• Coronavirus : What are the symptoms ?
A member of the scientific committee that briefs senior government ministers told me that this virus will be a measure of `` social capital '' in every country of the world , the strength of the glue that holds communities together .
We are already seeing a wave of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ social media , people looking for ways to support others through the isolation , the hardship and the distress .
The country is having to think differently about what `` coming together '' means in the context of social distancing .
But most of us can look to help others by offering accurate information and advice , delivering food or other vital supplies to vulnerable individuals , befriending and supporting those who may be lonely with a phone call or a friendly text .
Many people stuck at home may have the time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our stock of social capital , supporting a neighbour , helping out , doing the right thing .
`` Now more than at any time in our history , we will be judged by our capacity for compassion , '' Chancellor Rishi Sunak told the country on Friday .
`` When this is over , and it will be over , we want to look back on this moment and remember the many small acts of kindness , done by us and to us . ''
The charity Action for Happiness has produced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people keep calm , stay wise and be kind .
`` Do three acts of kindness to help others , however , small , '' it suggests .
Other advice includes calling a loved one to catch up and really listen to them ; thanking three people you 're grateful to and telling them why ; finding positive stories in the news and sharing these with others .
Behavioural science recognises that trust in our leaders is the antidote to anxiety and potential social breakdown .
`` A perception that the government response @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the public may lead to an increase in tensions , '' the expert committee is advising ministers .
We need to find new routines and systems for once mundane tasks .
A trip to the shops requires we all take meticulous care not to become infected or pass the infection on .
For those who are required to go out to work , the same attention must be applied to everything we touch : handles , rails , keys , coins in a pocket , credit cards in a purse , tins on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and a gear stick , a computer keyboard and a mouse , a mug of tea .
It is the responsibility of all of us to minimise the risks to ourselves , our family and the wider community .
The disease may be exploiting our humanity , but it is our consideration for others , our compassion and our love for each other which will defeat it .
The next few months will test the strength of our community beyond anything that we have seen in living memory .
The demands on all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ greater than in wartime .
Future generations will judge us for how we behave .
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• GETTING READY : How prepared is the UK ?
• MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak

"Now more than at any time in our history, we will be judged by our capacity for compassion," Chancellor Rishi Sunak told the country on Friday. "When this is over, and it will be over, we want to look back on this moment and remember the many small acts of kindness, done by us and to us."


bbcuk--2020-03-21--Coronavirus: Workers describe being hit by job losses and uncertainty

Life in the UK has largely been put on hold , hitting businesses and their employees hard .
Many sectors have already seen widespread redundancies , with firms warning thousands more jobs could be wiped out .
`` I 'm not angry , I do n't blame anyone , '' says Holly Eyre , 28 .
She has moved back home with her parents in Leeds , after being made redundant from her `` dream job '' of managing a bar and restaurant in Newcastle , where she has lived for the past eight years .
Ms Eyre says around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have been let go because of the virus .
`` Moments after the advice came [ to avoid non-essential travel ] , we started receiving cancellation calls , '' she says .
`` As a brand new member of the team , I 'd only been there a couple of weeks , '' she says .
Ms Eyre , who is also a trained English teacher , says she is going to change jobs .
`` I do n't think the hospitality sector will survive the next few months . ''
Ms Eyre @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 80 % of wages for staff kept on by employers comes too late .
It is understood the plan will apply to firms that have already laid off workers - but only if they are brought back into the workforce by bosses .
`` I have been made redundant on Tuesday , as have so many others , '' she says .
`` This does not help me . ''
But she adds : `` I 'm not in a difficult situation really .
I have got my parents to fall back on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'm really lucky . ''
Among those who are more worried about their situation is Tom Danousias , 23 , from south west London , who was also made redundant this week .
`` I was in the office and they sent a HR person who informed me I have to go home because of the coronavirus , '' he says .
Mr Danousias , who worked for a company selling products to the hospitality sector , said : `` I feel really bad because I do n't know how I 'm going @ @ @ @ @ @ @ months .
`` I pay £800 for rent and bills .
I have got savings .
I calculated it and it will last two months maximum . ''
Business consultant Bob Donelan , 58 , from Rye in Sussex , says he is expecting to be unemployed for around six months .
He does contract work , with his current contract due to run out at the end of March .
He says there 's a `` perfect storm '' of coronavirus - plus planned ( but now postponed ) changes for self-employed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for contractors .
`` We have rent to pay , '' he says .
`` I have estimated [ we can afford to live ] for four to five months .
I 'm not even in the gig economy , who must be looking at week for week .
`` So it 's just a case of hunkering down and not spending . ''
• What is the UK 's plan and what could happen next ?
• 'If you can ’ t work , what do you do ?
’ For James @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the money he would have made from his Easter holiday restaurant job was going to help him learn to drive to help with his future job prospects .
`` It 's really restricted the sort of job I can apply for , '' he says .
`` Due to customers dropping they do n't need me anymore so they told me not to bother coming in , '' says Mr Godwin , 21 , from Oxford studying at the University of York .
`` I 've lost £1,200 because of that in wages @ @ @ @ @ @ @ am a student who is still privately renting for a flat in York I no longer need .
`` It 's upsetting to lose that much money and it 's been very stressful , '' he says . '
I applied at 7pm and was hired by 10pm' While many firms have announced job cuts in recent days , supermarkets have been bucking the trend and have gone on a hiring spree to recruit tens of thousands more staff - and quickly .
Student Tracy Landu , 24 , says hours at her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as the coronavirus outbreak meant fewer people were on campus .
She submitted a brief online application for a temporary customer service role at a Tesco store in north London at 19:00 GMT on Friday .
`` It was really quick , I did n't put too much detail - I did n't actually upload a full CV - I just thought 'no , I 'm not going to upload it ' .
I just knew they were quite desperate so the main details should be good [ enough ] . ''
By @ @ @ @ @ @ @ store and - after a two-minute telephone interview - asked to attend her induction on Saturday .
`` I spoke to a girl next to me who was called up at 09:00 for training at 12:00 , '' she said .
`` I was only on a short-term contract [ at the university library ] as I 'm a student in my final year , '' she added .
`` It made me think 'these hours are n't certain ' and I decided to take things into my own hands and get money @ @ @ @ @ @ @ GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• STRESS : How to protect your mental health • MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak Chains including Tesco , Asda , Aldi , and Lidl said they would hire thousands of staff after hugely increased demand saw shoppers clearing shelves .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has urged businesses to `` stand by your employees '' , following a £350bn package for businesses by Chancellor Rishi Sunak .
Mr Sunak also announced the government will pay some of the wages of workers employed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ aimed at protecting people 's jobs and will see the government pay four fifths of firms ' staff salaries , covering wages of up to £2,500 a month .

Ms Eyre says the government's plan to pay 80% of wages for staff kept on by employers comes too late. It is understood the plan will apply to firms that have already laid off workers - but only if they are brought back into the workforce by bosses.


bbcuk--2020-03-22--Coronavirus: The rough sleepers who can't self-isolate

For more than 35 years , The People 's Kitchen in Newcastle has opened its doors to rough sleepers and vulnerable people .
Based in a former church , tables for up to 120 diners sit in-between floor-to-ceiling beams , with a professional kitchen at the back - once the heartbeat of the operation .
But today it is all empty .
Instead , the charity 's dedicated volunteers serve hot soup , sandwiches , cakes and pastries from tables in the car park .
In the evening , it is hot food from a catering van .
This has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rise across the UK , in an attempt to keep supplying food to the neediest while minimising the risk of spread .
Many soup kitchens in the local area - particularly church-run ones - have already closed .
The People 's Kitchen estimates it has lost up to 30 % of its volunteer workforce , with all those over the age of 70 reluctantly asked to stay home .
One woman , Sophie - who says she spends her nights sleeping rough in a shop doorway - describes the service as her lifeline @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' she says .
`` Not many hostels are taking people in because of the virus , and I 've got nowhere to stay this evening .
No family I can turn to .
`` I 'd love to be put somewhere , anywhere - even a derelict building .
`` If this place [ The People 's Kitchen ] gets closed down , I do n't know what I 'm going to do . ''
Sophie has been given baby wipes by the volunteers to help keep herself clean during the day @ @ @ @ @ @ @ too - although the service is limited amid increased cleaning .
She is being regularly supported by the charity 's welfare team , but says the outbreak is taking a toll on her mental health .
`` I 'm low to start with , and this is making it worse .
I ca n't sleep at the moment .
`` The doctor has given me anti-depressants , but I do n't know what I 'd do if the chemist was shut . ''
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
• GETTING READY : How prepared is the UK ?
Rough sleepers are thought to be more at risk of contracting the virus , with many having underlying health conditions .
Kalpana Sabapathy , an NHS GP and clinical epidemiologist , says malnutrition and exposure to the elements reduce the effectiveness of the immune system .
Many also have `` vulnerabilities that age them prematurely '' , she says .
Some have HIV and TB , while drug and alcohol use can also be a factor .
Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ help local authorities provide accommodation and services to rough sleepers who need to self-isolate .
`` Public safety and protecting the most vulnerable people in society from coronavirus is this government 's top priority , '' he said .
It is a move welcomed by the Local Government Association , which represents councils in England and Wales .
But there are also calls for government to go further .
A group of charities that run hostels across the UK is warning that such accommodation is becoming a `` Petri dish '' for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Chatrik says more must be done to test those living there - with many in dormitories , and others sharing bathroom and kitchen facilities .
The charity also subsidises the work of hostels , but Ms Chatrik says its income has already fallen since the outbreak due to a loss of money gained through fundraising - which has left her `` really worried '' regarding the impact on such accommodation .
She adds she has also heard reports of homeless individuals being unable to access support from at least one local authority because @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over the phone , calls were going unanswered .
As part of an initial trial this weekend , 300 rooms are being offered by hotels in London to homelessness charities , with the aim to protect rough sleepers from the spread of the virus .
According to Matt Downie , the director of policy at the charity Crisis , without such steps it is `` impossible '' for the homeless community to self-isolate .
He believes student accommodation could also be used to house rough sleepers , as many rooms have washing facilities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` The ideal outcome '' , he adds , is something that is already beginning to take place in Glasgow - moving rough sleepers into furnished flats .
Not only does this enable them to self-isolate if needed , he says , it also potentially solves the issue of them being homeless .
In Newcastle , The People 's Kitchen is determined to keep its services running for as long as possible .
It helps other vulnerable people too , like Andy - who has found the local food bank closed .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ such services were n't available , `` I could n't afford anything '' .
Its volunteers say the community response has been `` fantastic '' , but admit that if just one person attended with symptoms of coronavirus , it could drastically affect their capacity to operate .
They continue to serve food with a smile and conversation .
But with the outbreak expected to last for months , it is sadly hard to imagine The People 's Kitchen operating from its actual kitchen any time soon .

The charity also subsidises the work of hostels, but Ms Chatrik says its income has already fallen since the outbreak due to a loss of money gained through fundraising - which has left her "really worried" regarding the impact on such accommodation.