bbcuk--2020-03-20--Coronavirus: What are shops doing about stockpiling?

British supermarkets are being asked to pool resources during the coronavirus outbreak , in a bid to combat panic buying and restock empty shelves .
What is the government doing about panic buying ?
Rules have been relaxed by the government to allow supermarkets to work together .
This means supermarkets can now share resources , such as distribution depots , delivery vans and staff , as well as co-ordinating stock levels across the country .
Rules around drivers ' hours have also been loosened to help get more food delivered to stores , while the 5p plastic bag charge @ @ @ @ @ @ @ speed up deliveries .
Supermarket delivery hours were also extended earlier in March to help shops remain stocked .
However , both Prime Minister Boris Johnson and supermarkets have stressed that shoppers should be sensible when buying food and groceries .
How are supermarkets trying to stop panic buying ?
The major supermarkets are imposing limits on how many of each item people can buy .
• Tesco is limiting customers to three of any product , and only two of toilet roll and paracetamol • Sainsbury 's says people can buy up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two of more popular items like toilet paper , soap and long-life milk • Asda will let people purchase up to three of any food , toiletry or cleaning product • Aldi is limiting customers to four of any product • Waitrose is allowing people to buy only three of any grocery product and two packets of toilet roll On Thursday , Sainsbury 's dedicated the first hour of opening in stores , apart from its Local shops , to elderly and vulnerable customers .
Iceland has also been opening an hour early @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tesco and Waitrose are introducing similar schemes .
Tesco told the BBC that it had received positive feedback to its scheme after the first day .
However , it added that some of its stores were still very busy and that it was working round the clock to get products on shelves .
Retail expert Katie Hardcastle , believes supermarkets could do more to improve their elderly hour schemes .
`` The few elderly people I 've been in contact said that when they did go , it was quieter and they were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' she said .
`` But a lot of elderly people need support with their shopping or are not looking to go out at all , so I think that needs looking at . ''
Morrisons has said it will take on 500 staff from Marie Curie and CLIC Sargent charity shops to help the elderly and vulnerable in stores across Great Britain .
Supermarkets have taken other action too .
Services like cafes and deli counters have been shut by Sainsbury 's , Asda and Waitrose , to allow more staff @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Tesco has said it will introduce distancing measures at checkouts to reduce the risk of infection .
And it is also going to introduce a special hour in its large stores on a Sunday morning for its own staff and NHS workers to shop .
Aldi is installing clear screens at all its checkouts from next week to protect staff and customers and is shortening its opening hours to close at 20:00 .
Both Asda and Lidl have announced nationwide recruitment drives for temporary staff to help restock shelves , drive delivery @ @ @ @ @ @ @ employees .
Asda is looking to hire 5,000 employees , while Lidl is seeking 2,500 additional staff .
Why there could soon be less choice Meanwhile , several food retailers are `` drastically cutting '' the range of products they sell .
They are also telling manufacturers to stop making some products to focus on those for which there is greatest demand .
For example , one retailer , which makes 60 kinds of sausages , will only produce a fraction of those .
And Morrisons have reduced their bakery lines from 17 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ What can I do ?
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• GETTING READY : How prepared is the UK ?
• MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak Online deliveries are being used by more people , but there are questions over how robust the systems are .
Ocado has taken its website offline until the weekend and has also closed its app because of heavy traffic .
Some Tesco deliveries are not arriving in their scheduled time slot and others are not being delivered at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time to reach all the addresses on the list .
Most of the major supermarkets have all their delivery slots booked up for at least the next couple of weeks .
Morrisons said it would increase its number of delivery slots by recruiting 2,500 extra pickers and drivers .
Sainsbury 's says it is going to prioritise delivery slots for elderly and vulnerable people , and said it could identify who was eligible through its customer data .
How many people are panic-buying ?
Social media is full of reports of empty shop @ @ @ @ @ @ @ such as Australia , the US , South Africa and Japan .
At the moment , we do n't have any official data on the scale of stockpiling in the UK .
But the main items on supermarkets ' restricted list include : What is the advice on stockpiling ?
The government has said there is no reason for anybody to stockpile .
Mr Johnson said : `` We are absolutely confident our supply chains are working , and will work , and we will get `` farm to fork '' food supplies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reason to stockpile or panic-buy . ''
Public Health England has said that people should plan ahead and think what they will need , if they have to self-isolate for at least seven days .
The advice is that they should ask friends or family to drop off anything they need , or order supplies online .
Any deliveries should be left outside their homes .
The Competition and Markets Authority watchdog has warned retailers not to `` exploit '' fears about coronavirus by dramatically increasing the price of protective goods like hand @ @ @ @ @

Other initiatives include Tesco introducing floor markings showing which direction to walk down the aisles in some of its larger stores. Morrisons has a queuing zone if there are too many customers to be separated by the floor markings, while Asda is bringing in directional barriers.


bbcuk--2020-03-20--Coronavirus in UK: How many confirmed cases are there in your area?

A total of 3,983 cases of coronavirus have been confirmed in the UK - but the actual number of cases is estimated to be much higher .
The number of deaths is now 177 , according to the latest figures available .
Some 62,993 other people in the UK have been tested for the respiratory infection but were found not to have it .
All schools in the UK have now closed , except for vulnerable pupils or children of key workers .
Cafes , bars , leisure centres and other social venues have also been told to close .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ cases in your area : If you ca n't see the look-up click here .
The following charts and graphics will help you understand the situation in the UK and how the authorities are dealing with it .
1 .
The UK has changed course The new coronavirus , which causes the respiratory disease known as Covid-19 , was first confirmed in the UK at the end of January .
While there were a number of people testing positive throughout February , figures in the UK began to increase at the beginning of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ further significant measures telling cafes , pubs and restaurants to close from Friday night , except for take-away food .
Night clubs , theatres , cinemas , gyms and leisure centres have also been asked to close `` as soon as they reasonably can '' .
The government had already asked people to work from home where possible , halt all unnecessary travel , and asked those aged over 70 to self isolate at home in the coming weeks .
Confirmed UK figures are lower than other European countries , such as Italy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been more than 47,000 cases and more than 4,000 deaths , according to 20 March figures from the Johns Hopkins University .
Globally , authorities have confirmed more than 260,000 cases of the coronavirus and more than 11,000 deaths .
There have now been more cases in the rest of the world outside China , the country where the virus originated in December , than inside .
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
How many confirmed cases are there in your area ?
• EASY STEPS : How can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the pandemic 2 .
We are in the second phase of the government 's response The government has published its action plan for dealing with the virus , which involves three phases - contain ; delay ; mitigate - alongside ongoing research .
While the emphasis has been on the contain and research phases up until this week , the country has now moved to the `` delay '' phase to stop the wider spread of the virus .
As part of the delay phase , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ defined as a temperature above 37.8 C or a `` new , continuous '' cough - are being asked to self-isolate at home for at least seven days to protect others and help slow the spread of the disease .
Even if you have no symptoms , the government says you should still : • Stop all non-essential contact with others • Work at home where possible The government is now encouraging self-isolation at home for over 70s , and those more vulnerable to the virus , for 12 weeks from Friday .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ collective action and scientific progress , we will turn the tide of this disease and beat it together '' .
British nationals should avoid all non-essential foreign travel to tackle the spread of coronavirus , the Foreign Office has advised .
If the virus becomes even more widespread , the government may then decide to enter the third phase of mitigation , when health services are asked to focus on critical care and retired NHS staff could be asked to return to work .
3 .
People who think they have coronavirus should @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a `` new , continuous '' cough - this means coughing a lot for more than an hour , or three or more coughing episodes in 24 hours ( if you usually have a cough , it may be worse than usual ) .
If you think you have coronavirus you are advised not to go to a GP surgery , pharmacy or hospital .
Instead , you stay at home for seven days .
If you live with other people - they should also stay home for 14 days to see if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ persist or worsen you should contact the NHS 's dedicated 111 online coronavirus service or call 111 .

Based on the survey, the estimated peak of the pandemic, in cases if not in deaths, was in late March 2022, where at one point about 4.9 million people were thought to have the virus. However, the survey did not capture the first wave of the pandemic, with trials only beginning in England in April 2020.


bbcuk--2020-03-20--UK Chancellor Rishi Sunak: UK govt to 'help to pay people's wages'

The government is to pay 80 % of wages for employees not working , up to £2,500 a month , @ @ @ @ @ .
The `` unprecedented '' measures were part of government plans to protect people 's @ @ @ @ @ , he said .

The government is to pay 80% of wages for employees not working, up to £2,500 a month, Chancellor Rishi Sunak has announced.
The "unprecedented" measures were part of government plans to protect people's jobs during the coronavirus outbreak, he said.


bbcuk--2020-03-20--Covid-19: What's happening with schools?

The government has closed all schools , but what does that mean for exams , and who can still go @ @

The government has closed all schools, but what does that mean for GCSE's and A Levels. And which children are still able to go in?
Education Editor Branwen Jeffreys explains.


bbcuk--2020-03-20--Coronavirus: Inside a UK GP surgery battling the outbreak

Doctors in this GP surgery in Hertfordshire have been working 11-hour days and have redesigned their surgery in response to @ @ @ @ @ Bridgewater GP practice on the outskirts of Watford looks after more than 30,000 patients .
@ @ @ @ @ Reed spent the day there to see how doctors on the front line are dealing @ @ @ @

Doctors in this GP surgery in Hertfordshire have been working 11-hour days and have redesigned their surgery in response to the coronavirus outbreak.
The Bridgewater GP practice on the outskirts of Watford looks after more than 30,000 patients.
The BBC’s Jim Reed spent the day there to see how doctors on the front line are dealing with the outbreak.


bbcuk--2020-03-20--Coronavirus: Last night of the pubs as lockdown begins

Drinkers around England wo n't be able to prop up the bars at their regular haunts after Boris Johnson announced a nationwide lockdown .
Despite the prime minster 's plea for people not to enjoy `` one last pint '' on Friday night , a few establishments reported an influx of customers before last orders .
For others , a quiet week continued as it had started , and their final night of trading was marked by empty seats .
Ryan North , manager at city centre bar The Wardrobe , said staff had been `` in limbo '' since @ @ @ @ @ @ @ down since then when people came in for their last pint .
`` Picture says it all really , no point in staying open , but we 've got a lot of beer to use up . ''
Daniel Force , barkeeper at the Brunswick Arms in Dawlish , said they had been closed for six weeks for a refurbishment .
`` We tried to open up this week just to get some people through the door , and now we 're being told we 're closing tonight , '' he said .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ come in to enforce the closure and make sure we close our doors at midnight . ''
`` It 's going to be tough , but hopefully with everyone 's help , we 'll be able to knuckle through . ''
The Loft , near the city 's Hippodrome theatre , was empty on Friday evening .
Owner Lawrence Barton said the chancellor 's announcement had `` actually brought a sense of conclusion and relief '' .
`` I think the measures the Chancellor announced this evening are going to greatly help business @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our workforce .
`` We 've been very concerned , the hospitality sector has been decimated , at least now it will give business owners the confidence to take the measure they need to secure as many jobs as possible . ''
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• GETTING READY : How prepared is the UK ?
• MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak Manager Anthony Price closed the doors of the Bedford pub in Tunbridge Wells at 20:00 GMT .
Staff took over £500 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to turn away dozens of people shortly before closing , he said .
The owners had considered closing earlier in the week , but had waited to receive the government order to close `` because we did n't know whether the insurance companies would cover us '' .
`` It was pay day for the staff today , so we wanted to make sure they got paid and made sure they were going to be alright for at least a month , '' he said .
Mr Price expects the pub to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it was `` all up in the air '' .
Forcing pubs to close was the wrong decision , he said .
`` I think the public are very resilient , especially the British , we are known for our stiff upper lip .
I think , let the public decide what they want to do .
`` If the older generation , the younger generation , they want to go to bars and restaurants , let them .
At least give them the option .
`` By me working , that 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ risk .
If the older generation want to come in for a beer , that 's at their risk .
`` I understand why they 've done it and hopefully it brings a quicker resolution to the end of the virus , but I just think let people do what they want to do .
It 's locking people up for a minimum of 12 weeks , it is like prison .
`` What you see on the news in other countries , you do n't expect it to happen in England , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Royal Tunbridge Wells . ''
Claire Brookes , landlady of the Walnut Tree Shades , is planning to use her life savings to pay her staff until government money comes through at the end of April .
`` I signed a tenancy agreement for five years and have lots of plans but now I 've been told I have to close my business .
`` I want to believe what the government will do will be good but I will not get access to their money until the end of April .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ because the only thing I can do to help my staff till the money comes through is to use my life savings . ''
James Winfield , of Franks cafe-bar in the city centre , said he was going to develop a takeaway business .
Friday was his last night and he said he would be doing a lot of number-crunching over the weekend .
`` I 'm worried but full of hope so will be ordering food and drink for the new business while taking one day at a time , '' @ @ @

"I understand why they've done it and hopefully it brings a quicker resolution to the end of the virus, but I just think let people do what they want to do. It's locking people up for a minimum of 12 weeks, it is like prison.


bbcuk--2020-03-20--Coronavirus: Sturgeon warns of 'difficult days' amid compulsory closures

The Scottish people are facing the `` biggest challenge of our lifetimes '' in the fight against coronavirus , Nicola Sturgeon has warned .
The first minister said there would be `` difficult days ahead '' as she confirmed compulsory closures of restaurants , cafes , pubs , gyms and cinemas .
But she said the crisis would pass if people followed health advice and look out for each other .
She spoke shortly after Boris Johnson ramped up social distancing measures .
He ordered pubs and restaurants to shut while the chancellor announced a raft of new financial measures @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her speech , Ms Sturgeon warned that the number of Covid-19 cases was `` set to rise sharply '' .
She urged people to follow social distancing advice to save lives and reduce pressure on the NHS .
And she addressed grandparents and children directly in a moving message .
`` To older people - we are asking you to stay away from your grandkids , from the people you love , '' she said .
`` That 's hard .
`` But it is for your protection - so you can stay @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` To children - I know this is a strange time .
You 're away from school , and wo n't be able to spend as much time with friends .
`` The adults around you are probably feeling a bit anxious too .
So help them .
Follow their advice .
Study and do your homework .
But do n't forget to have fun .
And wash your hands . ''
The number of positive cases in Scotland has risen to 322 , a rise of 56 from Thursday .
The number @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sturgeon added : `` This crisis is reminding us just how fragile our world is .
But it is also reminding us what really matters - health , love , solidarity .
`` With compassion and kindness - and with the dedication and expertise of our NHS - we can and we will get through this . ''
Ms Sturgeon earlier told a media briefing that she understood they were asking people to `` fundamentally change the way we live our lives '' .
She warned young people the advice to limit socialising @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she was concerned that young people would be disappointed that they will not be able to meet friends over the weekend .
`` But again I can not be clearer , '' she said .
`` Please do not think this advice just applies to other people and not to you . ''
The public have been asked to reduce social contact , work from home and stay away from crowded places .
Those who are most vulnerable should stay at home as much as possible .
The first minister said she understood @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what to do by politicians .
But she said : `` Believe me when I say this is vital .
It is vital for your own protection , it is vital for the protection of your loved ones , particularly the older and more vulnerable people .
`` It is vital for the protection of our NHS and its ability to care for those who will need it in the weeks to come .
It is vital for the protection of all of us and it is vital to help us save lives @ @ @ @ @ @ @ What are the symptoms ?
• STRESS : How to protect your mental health • MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak

"It is vital for the protection of our NHS and its ability to care for those who will need it in the weeks to come. It is vital for the protection of all of us and it is vital to help us save lives."


bbcuk--2020-03-20--Hanna Yusuf: Talented BBC journalist took her own life, inquest hears

A talented and widely admired BBC journalist took her own life , an inquest heard .
Hanna Yusuf , whose work included an investigation into working conditions at Costa Coffee stores , was found dead inside a flat in Paddington , west London in September 2019 .
Westminster Coroner 's Court heard that the 27-year-old 's best friend took her own life weeks before Ms Yusuf died .
In February 2018 Ms Yusuf was admitted to Newham General Hospital after taking an overdose , the court heard .
Dr Radcliffe told the court that Ms Yusuf `` regretted '' the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as a journalist `` which was her main protective factor '' .
She added : `` She felt alone , that there was no one in the world for her , [ she ] had had a traumatic childhood and had been trying to block emotions for a long time - but it had affected her . ''
Ms Yusuf then started therapy sessions with Lesley Cameron through an employee assistance programme ( EAP ) from March 2018 until January 2019 .
But , the counsellor told the inquest , she had no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ take her own life .
`` She had presented [ at ] times of being depressed and more about confused feelings of being hopeless , '' Ms Cameron said .
In August 2019 Ms Yusuf messaged Ms Cameron following the death of her best friend and the pair met on 12 September for a `` one off session '' - but no notes were taken .
`` She was shocked and deeply saddened .
Troubled that her friend had not told her she was feeling so low , '' Ms Cameron told the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ later found by her landlady on 27 September and paramedics said she had been dead for some time .
PC Harvey Platt said there were no signs of disturbance or a note , adding that the death was deemed non-suspicious .
Dr Radcliffe described Ms Yusuf as a `` brave journalist who loved bringing people together '' .
The court heard she had been diagnosed with sleep disturbance `` due to work stress and irregular shift patterns '' .
Ms Yusuf , who spoke six languages , wrote for the BBC News website @ @ @ @ @ @ @ news producer .
Fran Unsworth , the BBC 's director of news , said she was a `` talented young journalist who was widely admired '' .
At the time of her death , BBC newsreader George Alagiah paid tribute to `` a young journalist of such talent and promise '' , while The Guardian 's editor Katharine Viner said she was a `` talented journalist and lovely person '' .
And BBC chief international correspondent Lyse Doucet tweeted : `` You left too soon a world where you shone such a bright @ @ @

She added: "She felt alone, that there was no one in the world for her, [she] had had a traumatic childhood and had been trying to block emotions for a long time - but it had affected her."


bbcuk--2020-03-21--Coronavirus: 'Relief' for businesses after government vows to pay wages

UK business leaders have expressed `` relief '' after the government committed to pay the wages of employees unable to work due to the coronavirus pandemic .
On Friday , the government announced it would pay 80 % of salaries for staff who are kept on by their employer .
The Confederation of British Industry hailed the `` landmark '' pledge but unions raised concerns self-employed and freelancer workers had no protection .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson also ordered pubs and restaurants to close .
Chancellor Rishi Sunak , who announced the support package at the daily coronavirus briefing with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 .
It is understood the 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 .
• A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
• GETTING READY : How prepared is the UK ?
• MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's £20bn , or thereabouts , '' Mr Johnson told BBC 4 's Today programme .
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 .
The 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' 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 welcomed the `` clear instruction that closing their doors is the right thing to do '' and gave owners confidence that the government would support their staff and their business .
Tim Foster , co-founder of The Yummy Pub Co , which runs four pubs in and around London , said the new measures were overdue but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ being laid off .
But some business groups warned of the potential risk to firms if they had to wait for the money to arrive .
Kate Nicholls , the chief executive of trade body UK Hospitality , said many businesses faced rent payments before the support was due and urged banks and landlords to help `` bridge the gap towards this generous government support '' .
The Federation of Small Businesses warned the delay in wages help - potentially until the end of April - meant many small firms would still face @ @ @ @ @ @ @ flow crunch '' .
The wage package is the latest in a series of government moves aimed at easing the burden on businesses and their employees .
However , there was not the same wages guarantee for the five million self-employed people in the UK .
Instead , Mr Sunak increased benefits that many will have to fall back on .
Frances O'Grady , general secretary of the Trade Union Congress , told the BBC Today programme that the lack of measures put in place for the self-employed `` will cause real hardship @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' .
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 .
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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 generous than some of the high welfare Scandinavian countries .
It instantly transforms the social safety net of this nation .
The new measures came as Mr 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ told to close `` as soon as they reasonably can '' .
`` The more effectively we follow the advice we are given , the faster this country will stage both a 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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--Supermarkets Tesco, Asda, Aldi and Lidl go on hiring spree

Supermarkets have gone on a hiring spree as demand surges as a result of the coronavirus crisis .
Tesco , Asda , Aldi , and Lidl said they would hire thousands of staff after hugely increased demand saw shoppers clearing shelves .
That move came before the government said it would pay the wages of workers at firms affected by the pandemic .
And Sainsbury 's has asked shoppers to stay 1m away from shop staff if possible , to help keep them safe .
Supermarkets have been overwhelmed by a wave of panic-buying as shoppers rush to stock up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the stockpiling , in recent days the major British supermarkets imposed limits on how much of each item shoppers can buy .
Along with other measures to cope with the increased demand , some of the chains have embarked on big recruitment drives for a total of more than 30,000 jobs .
• Coronavirus : What are shops doing about stockpiling ?
Tesco , the UK 's biggest supermarket , wants to take on 20,000 temporary workers `` to help feed the nation '' , it said .
`` The Covid-19 pandemic has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for food and household products , '' the chain said .
`` At Tesco , we 're working around the clock to help ensure families have access to the shopping items they need .
`` We launched our recruitment drive online on Wednesday and since them we have already been overwhelmed by support from the public and thank everyone who has applied to work with us in stores . ''
It added that `` over the coming days thousands of new colleagues will join us '' .
Asda said it wanted to recruit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people whose jobs have been impacted by the virus .
Aldi announced it was looking to fill 5,000 new temporary posts and take on 4,000 permanent new workers for jobs in all its stores and distribution centres .
And Lidl said it would create about 2,500 temporary jobs across its 800 stores in the UK .
The discounter said it was hiring to `` help with an extremely busy time for stores '' .
Lidl GB chief executive Christian Haertnagel said staff were doing an `` incredible job at keeping our shelves stocked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ challenging period '' .
`` Temporarily expanding our teams is one way we can help support our colleagues and customers , whilst providing work to those that have had their employment affected by the current situation . ''
Earlier this week , Morrisons announced it was creating 3,500 new jobs to expand its home delivery service , about 2,500 pickers and drivers , plus 1,000 staff in its distribution centres .
It said it would make more slots available and also set up a call centre for those without access to online shopping @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` at a time of national need '' .
As well as introducing social distancing measures , Sainsbury 's CEO Mike Coupe said the store would prefer customers to pay with a card rather than cash .
He also said Sainsbury 's would be expanding its reserved 08:00-09:00 slot for elderly , disabled and vulnerable customers to NHS and social care workers .
On Friday , at his daily Downing Street briefing , Prime Minister Boris Johnson said he would be chairing a meeting with supermarket bosses on Saturday to discuss the situation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tough for the High Street due to higher costs and changes in shopping habits , the coronavirus crisis has added a huge burden for retailers as many people avoid their stores .
Sir Philip Green 's Arcadia retail group , which includes Topshop , Topman , Dorothy Perkins , and Miss Selfrige , said on Friday it was closing all its stores .
The company said it would focus on its digital and social platforms .
Staff were to remain employees and receive their full pay for March , but it was not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ then .
However , this news came before a massive UK intervention in which Chancellor Rishi Sunak will pay the wages of employees unable to work due to the coronavirus pandemic .
The radical move is aimed at protecting people 's jobs .
A number of travel operators have outlined measures they have been forced to bring in , due to the outbreak : • Holiday park operator Butlin 's said it would have to lay off 10,000 seasonal workers if it did not get enough state aid to pay their wages .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Butlin 's , Haven and Warner parks has approached the government for help • Hay 's Travel , which took over Thomas Cook 's shops , has cut 880 jobs out of a workforce of about 5,000 to reduce costs • The Confederation of Passenger Transport , which represents bus companies including Arriva , FirstGroup , Go-Ahead , National Express , and Stagecoach , says `` tens of thousands '' of jobs could go within weeks However , all these warnings and job cuts were made before the government announcement - and it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ still hold .
As well as the wage payments , it is understood the government wage subsidy will apply to firms where bosses have already had to lay off workers due to the coronavirus , as long as they are brought back into the workforce and instead granted a leave of absence .
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• GETTING READY : How prepared is the UK ?

"We launched our recruitment drive online on Wednesday and since then we have already been overwhelmed by support from the public and thank everyone who has applied to work with us in stores."


bbcuk--2020-03-21--Coronavirus: Doctors urge conversations about dying

Palliative care doctors are urging people to have a conversation about what they would want if they , or their loved ones , became seriously unwell with coronavirus .
We should discuss all possible scenarios - even those we are not `` comfortable to talk about '' , they said .
Medics said the virus underlined the importance of these conversations .
New guidelines are being produced for palliative care for Covid-19 patients , the BBC understands .
Dr Iain Lawrie , president of The Association for Palliative Medicine of Great Britain and Ireland , told the BBC that palliative @ @ @ @ @ @ @ together to create the guidance .
He said the impact of the virus was likely to change how palliative care would be delivered in future .
While the majority of patients with Covid-19 will get mild or moderate symptoms , for some patients the virus will be life-threatening .
Some of the patients who have already died from the virus have not been in intensive care , as this would not have made any difference to their outcome .
Instead they have been cared for on an NHS ward .
`` The great @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of course , we are all scared , is to try to close your mind to your worst fears , '' says Dr Rachel Clarke , author and palliative care specialist .
`` Why would anyone want to contemplate their own mortality right now when everyone could be threatened ?
But it is precisely that uncertainty that makes this the most important time for advanced care planning . ''
Advanced care planning is a technical term but , `` really advanced care planning amounts to nothing more complicated than having a think - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what would matter to you if you became so sick that you may die '' , Dr Clarke said .
`` Are you the kind of person who would want to go to hospital , to intensive care or would you want to stay at home ? ''
she added .
`` If you do n't have these conversations and the worst does happen , it would be terrible , if your loved one suddenly became sick and could n't speak for themselves , and you realised you did n't know what Mum @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to say , ' I do n't know ' , '' Dr Clarke says .
`` You might always be left with the haunting , nagging fear that you were n't able to advocate for her .
`` Is n't it more important to have these conversations , just in case , than end up in a panic , wondering what a loved one would have wanted ? ''
Adrienne Betteley , from Macmillan Cancer Support said : `` It is never too early to have conservations about advance care plans .
We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about their wishes as soon as possible . ''
Dr Lawrie said the coronavirus crisis was highlighting the `` lack of resourcing '' for palliative care medicine .
He said there were 60 unfilled consultant palliative care posts across the UK and he said the number of specialist nurses was a `` worry '' .
He told the BBC that palliative care teams were currently looking at new ways of working as the crisis deepened , using telephone support , FaceTime and Skype .
They also were looking at alternative medicines and routes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ give , if patients decided they wanted to stay at home .
He told the BBC new guidelines were being drawn up for the crisis .
`` I think the coronavirus crisis could change how palliative care is delivered in the future , '' he said .
`` The coronavirus crisis underlines the need to have these difficult conversations , that we often put off , what our wishes are , what is most important to us . ''
• EASY STEPS : What should I do ?
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak

"If you don't have these conversations and the worst does happen, it would be terrible, if your loved one suddenly became sick and couldn't speak for themselves, and you realised you didn't know what Mum would have wanted - you would have to say, 'I don't know'," Dr Clarke says.


bbcuk--2020-03-21--Oxfordshire GP slams 'wholly inadequate' coronavirus protection

A GP is urging NHS England to send better quality gear for doctors to protect themselves .
Dr Lisa Silver @ @ @ @ @ surgery in Nettlebed , South Oxfordshire looking after more than 4,000 patients , has said @ @ @ @ @ wholly inadequate '' .
She added the surgical face marks do not comply with World @ @ @ @ @ four years out of date .

A GP is urging NHS England to send better quality gear for doctors to protect themselves.
Dr Lisa Silver, who works in a surgery in Nettlebed, South Oxfordshire looking after more than 4,000 patients, has said the protective equipment is "wholly inadequate".
She added the surgical face marks do not comply with World Health Organisation standards and are four years out of date.
Reporter: Nikki Mitchell


bbcuk--2020-03-20--Coronavirus: Toilet roll alternatives blocking sewers

Toilet roll panic buying is leading to blocked sewers as people with no loo paper are forced to use alternatives , a water company has warned .
Northumbrian Water said householders were flushing wipes , kitchen roll and newspaper .
The company said it understood people were `` only improvising '' but the consequences could be `` devastating '' to homes and the environment .
Head of wastewater networks Simon Cyhanko said they should use the bin .
`` We understand some people affected by the limited toilet roll availability may have no choice but to use alternative products , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have devastating consequences , from causing people 's homes to be flooded with toilet waste to the environment being polluted . ''
A home flooded with sewage `` is n't a pleasant experience at any time and especially now , if vulnerable people need to self-isolate because of Covid-19 '' , he said .
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• STRESS : How to protect your mental health • MORE OF YOUR QUESTIONS : Answers on breastfeeding , pets and church Northumbrian Water found nearly two thirds of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ caused by wet wipes .
Blockages often happened inside householders ' plumbing and sewer pipes rather than further down the system , the company said .

A home flooded with sewage "isn't a pleasant experience at any time and especially now, if vulnerable people need to self-isolate because of Covid-19", he said.


bbcuk--2020-03-21--Coronavirus: Packham warns of impact on environmental issues

The coronavirus outbreak could set back efforts to tackle environmental issues by years , TV naturalist Chris Packham has warned .
He said a preoccupation with fighting the pandemic could move climate change down governments ' agendas .
The presenter said the outbreak could affect natural landscapes with nature reserves going unmaintained .
But he added it could give wildlife a `` respite '' and urged people to `` engage with nature '' .
Packham warned `` another deadly effect '' of the virus could be a failure to deal with climate change and biodiversity loss .
`` If this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in dealing with these issues and we lose the impetus we have gained , that could set us back years .
Climate change is n't going away , '' he said .
The UK is due to host the COP26 climate change conference in Glasgow in November , although the foreign secretary Dominic Raab said on Thursday there was `` no cast iron guarantee '' it would go ahead .
Springwatch host Packham said he was minimising social contact at his New Forest home and was `` gravely concerned '' about his 87-year-old @ @ @ @ @ @ @ conferences and meetings he was due to attend had been cancelled and it was `` not the time '' for confrontational campaigns .
`` We ca n't think the natural world wo n't be impacted - farmers may not be able to get into the fields , if people are n't maintaining nature reserves they will decline in quality and without surveys we 'll lose touch with what 's going on in the natural world , '' he added .
`` This will be a difficult and terrible time but we have to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and changing our practises .
`` We will ask ourselves about how we do business and social interactions - do we need as many jets in the sky ?
We ca n't allow ourselves to be this vulnerable again . ''
He said there could be a `` respite for nature '' with lower pollution levels , as experienced in Venice , and drew parallels with the foot and mouth crisis of 2001 .
`` It was a very different crisis but in the New Forest the dog walkers behaved responsibly and disturbance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they had the best breeding season for years and years . ''
He encouraged people to turn to nature for `` solace and joy '' if they were self-isolating .
`` It 's an opportunity - it 's spring , learn about birdsong , flowers are coming up - we know its good for our physical and mental health . ''
With Chinese markets selling live animals considered a potential source of diseases that are new to humans , Packham called for a permanent end to the trade .
`` Surely this will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to protect ourselves as well as the wildlife - there could be some long term blessing for wildlife . ''
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• GETTING READY : How prepared is the UK ?
• MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak

"We can't think the natural world won't be impacted - farmers may not be able to get into the fields, if people aren't maintaining nature reserves they will decline in quality and without surveys we'll lose touch with what's going on in the natural world," he added.


bbcuk--2020-03-21--Coronavirus: Hotel made staff homeless in 'admin error'

A hotel has claimed that letters sent to staff sacking them and ordering them to leave their accommodation immediately were sent in error .
Staff at the Coylumbridge Hotel near Aviemore were told on Thursday by management to leave the hotel in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak .
The action resulted in widespread criticism from politicians and a public backlash on social media .
Brittania Hotels has now apologised and blamed an administrative error .
Staff were given a letter , dated 19 March , to say the hotel was `` taking the latest government advice '' and that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ firm told the Liverpool Echo : `` With regards to the current situation regarding staff at our Coylumbridge Hotel and being asked to vacate their staff accommodation .
`` Unfortunately , the communication sent to these employees was an administrative error .
`` All affected employees are being immediately contacted .
We apologise for any upset caused . ''
More than a dozen employees were given the letter from hotel manager Mark Johnston also telling them to vacate their accommodation immediately .
The letter said : `` Taking the latest government advice , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ effect from 19 March 2020 , your employment has been terminated and your services are no longer required . ''
It added : `` You are asked to vacate the hotel accommodation immediately , returning any company property . ''
Earlier Alvarito Garcia from Madrid , who has worked at the hotel for nearly two years , said his best option now was to live in his tent until his food ran out .
He said he was unsure if he would be able to return to Spain due to the travel restrictions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outbreak .
He told BBC radio 's Good Morning Scotland that staff had no warning they were about to lose their jobs .
He said : `` I do n't know what to do .
They gave me the letter and they said I had to leave immediately .
They did n't give me any notice .
Even in my rota , they did n't put anything different . ''
Alvarito said the letter had been given to at least 13 people - most of whom were waiters in the hotel restaurant .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the letter had been handed out to others working in different areas of the hotel .
He added : `` I do n't know why .
They did n't say anything '' I do n't have words to say .
I feel useless , I feel bad . ''
Another worker at the hotel , Normunds Varslavans , from Latvia , said he was notified his job had been terminated about 30 minutes after finishing his shift .
Marc Crothall , the chief executive of the Scottish Tourism Alliance , said he was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ aware of the situation .
He said : `` There is huge anger among our industry .
This is not reflective of how all our businesses and our members behave . ''
He said : `` Yes the crisis has hit every business but we have seen nothing but compassion and respect across the sector and our upmost priority is to protect the employee welfare . ''
Local MSP Kate Forbes said the hotel owners ' response to a time of national crisis was `` intolerable '' .
She said : `` The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with no advance warning whatsoever is nothing short of callous , heartless and frankly unacceptable . ''
Ms Forbes praised the actions of the local community and businesses in trying to help the workers .
Shelter Scotland said people living in accommodation linked to their employment had rights even after they had lost their job .
It said their employer had to follow proper procedure .
On Friday hotel chain Macdonald Hotels stepped in to help sacked employees at the Coylumbridge .
A spokeswoman for the company said : `` The entire hospitality @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with temporary closures and lay-offs across the board .
`` However , when we heard of the situation at Coylumbridge Hotel , we immediately contacted the management there to offer their employees access to our staff accommodation at the nearby Macdonald Aviemore Resort to ensure they would n't be put out on the street . ''
BBC Scotland contacted the hotel and were directed to the head office for Britannia Hotels , where no-one was available for comment .

Alvarito said the letter had been given to at least 13 people - most of whom were waiters in the hotel restaurant. He said that he was unsure if the letter had been handed out to others working in different areas of the hotel.


bbcuk--2020-03-21--Coronavirus: 'I've lost half of myself' - bereaved husband

The husband of a British woman who died in Bali after testing positive for coronavirus has been speaking to the @ @ @ @ @ 52-year-old wife Kimberley , who was diabetic but in good health , underwent two emergency @ @ @ @ @ hospital before her death .
Mr Finlayson has warned that the phrase `` underlying health @ @ @ @ @ many who would consider themselves to be in good health .

The husband of a British woman who died in Bali after testing positive for coronavirus has been speaking to the BBC.
Ken Finlayson's 52-year-old wife Kimberley, who was diabetic but in good health, underwent two emergency operations at an Indonesian government hospital before her death.
Mr Finlayson has warned that the phrase "underlying health conditions" could apply to many who would consider themselves to be in good health.


bbcuk--2020-03-21--Coronavirus: 'Call a truce and be kind while stuck indoors'

People should call a domestic `` truce '' and be kinder to each while coronavirus forces many to spend more time at home together , a relationships charity has said .
Stringent government measures may result in enforced shared time for families who are not used to it .
A medical historian said social dynamics may be `` tested and strained '' in the coming weeks .
But Relate Cymru said focusing on relationships `` will get you through '' .
• Coronavirus : How to protect your mental health • Can you do outdoor sports while social distancing ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to avoid `` non-essential '' travel and contact , to work from home where possible , and to stay away from pubs , clubs and restaurants .
With some parts of the world in lockdown , the UK prime minister has refused to rule out more widespread curbs on travel .
Dr Rachel Davies , a Relate Cymru councillor , said it had left a lot of people feeling a `` loss of control '' over domestic and family life but added there were things they could do .
`` Relationships will get @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` and being kind to each other will help us cope better . ''
There are three generations under one roof for the Norris family in Cardiff .
Fred , 58 , and Suzette , 56 , live with one of their two children , Ffion , 22 , and her 19-month-old son Theo in their terraced home in Heath .
`` It can be difficult .
You 're not going out anywhere , nobody 's having their free time , '' said Suzette .
Fred said he does feel like he 'll @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` I think my life expectancy is more challenged by Suzette than coronavirus .
She 's going to kill me by the end of the week , '' he said , jokingly .
`` It 's going to test all our patience , I 'm sure , but at the end of the day you have to find a way through it . ''
Fred said the internet certainly helped , allowing people to use devices independently in different rooms .
But for Ffion , life with baby Theo has been a challenge @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , to be honest , '' she said .
`` Obviously , I 'm trying to entertain Theo .
Usually , I just like to get out , take him swimming or soft-play or something like that , but now you ca n't . ''
In terms of relations in the household , she said : `` We 're alright at the moment , we 're not too bad , but it 's early days . ''
Dr Davies said Relate had heard from some clients who had pre-existing problems in their relationships @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people as much as possible to call some sort of truce during this period , '' she added .
`` There 's an element of having to kind of choose your battles really and a need to pull together when the outside environment has become hostile . ''
How can you avoid tensions at home ?
Relate Cymru offered advice on steps to help ease any tensions at home , including : • Be kinder to each other , cut each other some slack • Be aware other people cope with anxiety in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ while some need to immerse themselves in information • Go to different rooms in the house if you want some space , do n't force yourself to be together 24/7 • Use social media , text , phones to stay in touch if you need to self-isolate in different rooms • Put off big conversations until moments of high stress have passed • See the opportunities for your family to be together and to be at home - use it as a chance to reconnect Dr Michael Bresalier , a Swansea University lecturer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ facing restrictions unprecedented in modern times .
An expert in the outbreak of Spanish flu - a worldwide pandemic which killed 50m worldwide and 11,400 in Wales in 1918 - he said families of a century ago were in some ways better equipped to deal with it .
`` People were really used to war conditions at home , whether it be various types of deprivation or restrictions , '' Dr Bresalier .
`` But [ they were ] also bringing through a strong sense of community and doing something for the national @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , we 're better placed [ now ] for being socially isolated and having restrictions on our movements than ever before .
We have social media , most of us have access to Netflix and various types of online resources . ''
Dr Bresalier said that , while there were cinema and school closures and limited access in certain areas in 1918 , `` there 's really no precedent '' in Britain for the restrictions coronavirus has and could trigger .
`` I think people will find it strange but it depends on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's for quite a relatively short amount of time , I think people are used to doing a lot at home .
`` But when we stretch beyond weeks and then go into a month , social dynamics will be tested and strained . ''

"By the same token, we're better placed [now] for being socially isolated and having restrictions on our movements than ever before. We have social media, most of us have access to Netflix and various types of online resources."


bbcuk--2020-03-21--Coronavirus: The social events you can join from your sofa

With social distancing and self-isolating becoming the norm , the spread of coronavirus means more and more people are missing out on the activities they usually do with friends and family .
But events such as pub quizzes , choir practice , breastfeeding support groups and even dance classes can still carry on from the comfort of your own home .
Despite being miles apart , people are finding ways to boost their spirits and keep social gatherings alive .
'People are happy to do something positive' Inspired by the widely shared videos of people singing from their balconies in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sofa Singers .
His weekly online event sees 500 people come together for a 45-minute rehearsal where they learn a classic song and sing it together .
Choir and vocal leader James , 37 , said : `` I put it out on my social feeds for the first one and the places were all taken in 10 minutes .
`` We had people from all over England and from California , Mexico and even Kenya .
`` I think people are really happy to do something that is positive and that they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sofa Singers have already tackled the Bill Withers hit Lean On Me and 1960s classic Stand By Me .
`` They can hear me and themselves in their headphones and see everyone else , '' said James , who lives in North Wales .
`` If I see someone who catches my eye then I unmute them and everyone can hear them .
`` For the final performance I encourage people to ring someone they know as they sing or record it and share it online . ''
'We had the same level @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hanna and Amelia felt it would be irresponsible to continue running their pub quiz at the Free Trade Inn in Newcastle .
But their event has gone online to ensure customers do not miss out on their weekly fix .
`` The teams can see and hear us and each other , '' said Emma , 26 , who works as a technology consultant .
`` When we read out the questions they can fill in the answers on a Google form .
`` The first one we did on Wednesday lasted about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had the same level of banter between the teams so it was good fun . ''
Emma said the pub was hoping to introduce takeaway beer and pizzas from a local food truck for next week 's quiz .
`` It was a bit weird not having prizes but the winning team had a moral victory and we got everyone to clap them , '' she added .
'Anything I can do to help I will' Retired midwife Sue Richards , 68 , usually runs the Abingdon Baby Café from a church hall @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The local group is no longer able to meet in person but instead Sue is using FaceTime or WhatsApp to conduct appointments with new mums .
`` I am happy to have people ringing me whenever they want during the week , '' said Sue , a midwife of 40 years and an international board-certified lactation consultant .
`` It 's not as good as one-to-one , there is n't the group support or the hug which they often need but it has still worked well this week .
I have spoken @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sue is still able to help mothers with their breastfeeding queries or concerns and , using video calls , she can even watch them try out her suggestions in real time .
`` The community midwives are snowed under so the post-natal care has gone down even though they are doing all they can .
`` But I can do this to help and I am qualified to do it so anything I can do to help I will . ''
• EASY STEPS : How to keep safe • A SIMPLE GUIDE @ @ @ @ @ @ @ GETTING READY : How prepared is the UK ?
• MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak • TRAVEL PLANS : What are your rights ?
'People can dip in and out all day' Oli Shier had planned to spend his 28th birthday watching football in the pub before playing poker with his friends .
But he scrapped his plans for Saturday when he started self-isolating .
Instead he is using video-conferencing service Zoom to host an online house party for about 20 friends from his home in Clapham Junction , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of ways we could still hang out so thought of getting everyone on a group chat , everyone with a drink in hand and we can play games , '' said engineer Oli .
`` We are going to play a horse racing game using a pack of cards which I can record and then take bets on as we all watch it .
`` I 've also made a quiz using everyone 's old Facebook statuses so you have to guess whose status it is , or a game where you have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the photo .
`` We plan to start at midday to 2pm and people can dip in and out all day , it will be mix of friends from home in Guernsey , some from uni and people I 've met in London . ''
'It 's important to keep moving' For Lisa Martin , who runs Song Squad Performing Arts Courses in Bedford , taking her classes online is a way of keeping some `` normality '' and making sure the daily routine of children is `` not being spoilt '' .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ evening and is now moving all her dance , drama and singing classes online .
`` The first session was just amazing , it was meant to be an hour but ended up being an hour and twenty minutes as we were having so much fun , '' she said .
`` It 's hugely important for everyone to keep moving and stay connected as I do n't want people just sitting at home . ''
She is planning on running a free daily video for everyone so `` children who are n't @ @ @ @ @ @ @ link so they can all do it together '' .

Coronavirus: The social events you can join from your sofa Published 21 March 2020
Image source, @Swissmist Image caption, The Sofa Singers sees 500 people come together every week
With social distancing and self-isolating becoming the norm, the spread of coronavirus means more and more people are missing out on the activities they usually do with friends and family.
But events such as pub quizzes, choir practice, breastfeeding support groups and even dance classes can still carry on from the comfort of your own home.
Despite being miles apart, people are finding ways to boost their spirits and keep social gatherings alive.
'People are happy to do something positive'
Image source, Tory Williams Image caption, James Sills works as a choir and vocal leader
Inspired by the widely shared videos of people singing from their balconies in Italy, James Sills set up The Sofa Singers.
His weekly online event sees 500 people come together for a 45-minute rehearsal where they learn a classic song and sing it together.
Choir and vocal leader James, 37, said: "I put it out on my social feeds for the first one and the places were all taken in 10 minutes.
"We had people from all over England and from California, Mexico and even Kenya.
"I think people are really happy to do something that is positive and that they can feel part of."
The Sofa Singers have already tackled the Bill Withers hit Lean On Me and 1960s classic Stand By Me.
"They can hear me and themselves in their headphones and see everyone else," said James, who lives in North Wales.
"If I see someone who catches my eye then I unmute them and everyone can hear them.
"For the final performance I encourage people to ring someone they know as they sing or record it and share it online."
'We had the same level of banter'
This video can not be played To play this video you need to enable JavaScript in your browser. Media caption, Newcastle pub quiz goes virtual to continue
Emma Clement and her friends Hanna and Amelia felt it would be irresponsible to continue running their pub quiz at the Free Trade Inn in Newcastle.
But their event has gone online to ensure customers do not miss out on their weekly fix.
"The teams can see and hear us and each other," said Emma, 26, who works as a technology consultant.
"When we read out the questions they can fill in the answers on a Google form.
"The first one we did on Wednesday lasted about an hour and a half. We had the same level of banter between the teams so it was good fun."
Emma said the pub was hoping to introduce takeaway beer and pizzas from a local food truck for next week's quiz.
"It was a bit weird not having prizes but the winning team had a moral victory and we got everyone to clap them," she added.
'Anything I can do to help I will'
Image source, Sue Richards Image caption, Sue Richards (centre) has already spoken to three mothers from her own home
Retired midwife Sue Richards, 68, usually runs the Abingdon Baby Café from a church hall in the Oxfordshire town every Thursday afternoon.
The local group is no longer able to meet in person but instead Sue is using FaceTime or WhatsApp to conduct appointments with new mums.
"I am happy to have people ringing me whenever they want during the week," said Sue, a midwife of 40 years and an international board-certified lactation consultant.
"It's not as good as one-to-one, there isn't the group support or the hug which they often need but it has still worked well this week. I have spoken to three mums since Wednesday."
Sue is still able to help mothers with their breastfeeding queries or concerns and, using video calls, she can even watch them try out her suggestions in real time.
"The community midwives are snowed under" and "are doing all they can" she added.
"But I can do this to help and I am qualified to do it so anything I can do to help I will."
'People can dip in and out all day'
Image source, Oli Shier Image caption, Oli Shier (far right) is not letting self-isolation spoil his birthday
Oli Shier had planned to spend his 28th birthday watching football in the pub before playing poker with his friends.
But he scrapped his plans for Saturday when he started self-isolating.
Instead he is using video-conferencing service Zoom to host an online house party for about 20 friends from his home in Clapham Junction, south London.
"I was thinking of ways we could still hang out so thought of getting everyone on a group chat, everyone with a drink in hand and we can play games," said engineer Oli.
"We are going to play a horse racing game using a pack of cards which I can record and then take bets on as we all watch it.
"I've also made a quiz using everyone's old Facebook statuses so you have to guess whose status it is, or a game where you have to guess who is cropped out of the photo.
"We plan to start at midday to 2pm and people can dip in and out all day, it will be mix of friends from home in Guernsey, some from uni and people I've met in London."
'It's important to keep moving'
Image source, Song Squad Performing Arts Courses Image caption, Children taking part in a performing arts class
For Lisa Martin, who runs Song Squad Performing Arts Courses in Bedford, taking her classes online is a way of keeping some "normality" and making sure the daily routine of children is "not being spoilt".
She ran her first session on Thursday evening and is now moving all her dance, drama and singing classes online.
"The first session was just amazing, it was meant to be an hour but ended up being an hour and twenty minutes as we were having so much fun," she said.
"It's hugely important for everyone to keep moving and stay connected as I don't want people just sitting at home."
She is planning on running a free daily video for everyone so "children who aren't seeing their grandparents can send them a link so they can all do it together".


bbcuk--2020-03-21--How Britain’s ‘plague village’ is coming together

'Most of us wo n't see each other again' Year six pupils spoke of their sadness as they left primary @ @ @ @ @ the last time .

More than 350 years ago, the Derbyshire village of Eyam quarantined itself during the plague. Now it’s using those lessons about humanity to face coronavirus.
The BBC’s Fergal Keane went to visit a community that remains hopeful in the face of troubling times ahead.


bbcuk--2020-03-21--Coronavirus: The school of Mum and Dad

Coronavirus: The school of Mum and Dad

All schools in the UK closed their doors on Friday , and there 's no timetable for when they might re-open .
Parents , who may need to work and juggle childcare , will have to fill the gap .
While no-one expects them to replicate school , there is plenty of online help to stave off boredom .
If your school already puts work online , using Google Classroom or similar software , it is likely that this will continue .
Secondary schools generally make more use of this than primaries , and older pupils are more likely to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and completing work .
They are also more likely to have their own laptops .
Some school are requesting older children follow their existing timetables , with some active lessons , involving Google Hangouts and virtual classrooms , and some passive lessons , where children get on with work independently .
Each school will have its own system : some will continue to post lessons on Google Classroom daily , others less frequently .
Online systems usually allow for children to submit work and have it marked , but again that will depend @ @ @ @ @ @ @ resources ?
Lots of schools subscribe to websites such as MathsWatch , which director Ken Smith says is experiencing a surge in activity .
`` We have been contacted by more than 100 schools looking to join in the last few days and we have four times the traffic we normally have as there are so many teachers on the site creating homework , '' he said .
Parents are asking how they can access it , but currently it is not available to the public .
Mr Smith said he had considered @ @ @ @ @ @ @ yet to join but has decided that it `` would not be fair '' .
`` If we were to offer it free , it would slow the system down too much , '' he said .
The website has already added extra processing power in order to cope with increased demand and is ready to add more as the service surges next week .
Mr Smith , a maths teacher for 34 years , has some simple advice for parents who may not have access to online resources or even laptops or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to teach children clever tricks to improve spelling .
It has the backing of lexicographer Susie Dent and has just announced that for the duration of the coronavirus outbreak it will be available free to parents and schools .
What other free resources are there ?
Schools are likely to send out recommendations along the lines of these , to an Essex-based parents ' WhatsApp group : • BrainPop - offers animated movies on topics in maths , science and English • Creative Bug - offers craft lessons , from knitting to jewellery-making @ @ @ @ @ @ @ places that cover the curriculum extensively ?
BBC Bitesize offers lots of resources that are clearly divided into subject and age categories , and the broadcaster has promised to offer lots more in the coming days .
YouTube 's Free School offers a range of videos looking at subjects as diverse as the US constitution , coral reefs and the solar system .
Twinkl has just offered free access to its resources for a month and is providing a simple guide for parents to use it .
And the organisation behind the Ted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ full of `` lessons worth sharing '' from teachers around the globe .
Many educationalists were arguing long before the coronavirus crisis that the school system needed drastic change .
This is a time to put new ways of learning to the test , thinks Andy Salmon , the creator of the SirLinkalot spelling app .
`` Online is the way forward .
You have to get into the child 's world to inspire them , and that is online . ''
But like the school day , it is important to establish @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a teacher who works online with children who can not attend school .
`` The key is finding out what works for you as a family , but have a delineation between home life and school .
Do n't spend all day in pyjamas .
Come together for a mindfulness session rather than an assembly and do topic-based work , too .
My daughter and I will do the Egyptians next week . ''
It 's not all work… Remember that while learning is important , at this time of unprecedented uncertainty , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ having fun and getting out of the house ( where appropriate ) .
The National Trust is making its grounds free to visit so that families can get fresh air , while there are plenty of virtual tours of museums , such as those offered by Google Arts and Culture .
`` Play board games , learn an instrument , bake together and let children use apps like Zoom or Skype so they can stay in touch with their friends , '' advises Ms Dove .
Netflix or other streaming services can be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ movies you loved from your childhood .
Encourage reading - World Book Online has just made their collection of 3,000 ebooks and audiobooks available for free for children to access at home .
Most importantly , keep talking , especially about the future and how much you will all appreciate normal life when it resumes .

"We have been contacted by more than 100 schools looking to join in the last few days and we have four times the traffic we normally have as there are so many teachers on the site creating homework," he said.


bbcuk--2020-03-21--Week in Pictures: 14-20 March 2020

Week in Pictures: 14-20 March 2020

A selection of powerful news photographs taken around the world this week as people react to the spread of the @ @ @ @ @ the last pack of toilet rolls at Sainsbury 's supermarket in Northwich , United Kingdom @ @ @ @ @ 600 pensioners had formed before the shop opened at 07:00 with the first hour reserved @ @ @ @ @ .
Many stores have introduced limits on what people can buy to try to curb @ @ @ @ @ Israeli couple Roni Ben-Ari and Yonatan Meushar celebrate their marriage at the Ein Hemed Forest @ @ @ @ @ free , small-scale weddings for young couples whose plans have been disrupted by the restrictions @ @ @ @ @ fight coronavirus .
All photographs belong to the copyright holders as marked .

Image caption,
A woman gets the last pack of toilet rolls at Sainsbury's supermarket in Northwich, United Kingdom. A queue of approximately 600 pensioners had formed before the shop opened at 07:00 with the first hour reserved for elderly and vulnerable people. Many stores have introduced limits on what people can buy to try to curb stockpiling of popular items.


bbcuk--2020-03-21--Coronavirus: 'My virtual date sent me £15 for wine'

Your first date went well , you have a second lined up and suddenly you 're told to stay at home and practice social distancing , what do you do ?
Well , Cilla Hope 's date sent her £15 on Monzo for a bottle of wine and they spent three hours on video chat getting to know each other and playing drinking games like Never Have I Ever .
Cilla , a 25-year-old marketing consultant from Croydon , tells Radio 1 Newsbeat how it went .
The couple who met in a bar a few weeks ago had to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the coronavirus outbreak .
`` When he suggested it , I just laughed at first . ''
On the night , they both popped out and bought the same bottle of rosé '' I actually bought a bag of Haribo too , '' she admits .
The pair arranged to meet online at 8pm on Thursday and Cilla got ready by putting on some make-up but did n't get too dressed up .
`` I just wore my pyjamas , I did n't want to look like I was trying too much !
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ chatting about quarantine life , you know , getting sick of being stuck with our families and stuff . ''
But it seems virtual dating comes with its own potential issues .
`` Going to the toilet caused a bit of an awkward moment , so we decided to leave our laptops and both go at the same time . ''
They both live with their families so , accidentally , meeting the parents sooner than planned was a worry .
`` He has a younger brother and was concerned he would just @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to watch some of their favourite TV shows together but that was n't so successful .
`` We wanted to watch The Office at the same time , you know the episode where there 's the fire drill and everyone 's freaking out ?
But it did n't really work . ''
`` It was a fun date though . ''
It went well enough to confirm a third , and next time they 're tweaking the formula .
`` It 's going to be on a Friday so we do n't have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` And we 're downloading the Netflix plugin where you can watch stuff at the same time .
`` We 're also going to order each other a takeaway so it 's a surprise for the other person when it arrives . ''
And if you were wondering what they 're planning on watching next time ... '' We 're going to try that Pandemic TV series , '' she says .
On how the date ended , Cilla says there was no virtual kiss , but `` the next will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ... '' • 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

Allow Twitter content?
This article contains content provided by Twitter. We ask for your permission before anything is loaded, as they may be using cookies and other technologies. You may want to read Twitter’s cookie policy, external and privacy policy, external before accepting. To view this content choose ‘accept and continue’.


bbcuk--2020-03-21--Coronavirus: Chris Packham on Covid-19's impact on nature

The coronavirus outbreak is having a huge impact on human society and economy - but what of wildlife and the @ @ @ @ @ Packham , who lives in the New Forest , says the natural world is not @ @ @ @ @ potential huge impact on the countryside and the wildlife that lives there .
The naturalist @ @ @ @ @ through planes being grounded and there being fewer cars on the road , but said @ @ @ @ @ issue of climate change has been forgotten and momentum lost .
Open spaces around England @ @ @ @ @ people are careful to still observe social distancing and Packham said getting out into nature @ @ @ @ @ as it was right now .

The coronavirus outbreak is having a huge impact on human society and economy - but what of wildlife and the environment?
TV presenter Chris Packham, who lives in the New Forest, says the natural world is not escaping the pandemic with a potential huge impact on the countryside and the wildlife that lives there.
The naturalist welcomed a reduction in pollution through planes being grounded and there being fewer cars on the road, but said he was worried the global issue of climate change has been forgotten and momentum lost.
Open spaces around England remain open as long as people are careful to still observe social distancing and Packham said getting out into nature had never been so important as it was right now.
This video is a companion piece to this interview with Chris Packham.
Reporters: Ben Moore and Stephen Stafford


bbcuk--2020-03-21--Coronavirus: How to spread joy in a world of self-isolation

Whether it 's music , art or `` modifed block parties '' , coronavirus is having a major effect on @ @ @ @ @ each other .
From the Sofa Singers in the UK , through to makeup artists @ @ @ @ @ are trying to fight back against self-isolation .

Whether it's music, art or ''modifed block parties'', coronavirus is having a major effect on the way we interact with each other.
From the Sofa Singers in the UK, through to makeup artists in South Korea, people are trying to fight back against self-isolation.


bbcuk--2020-03-21--Newspaper headlines: Wage bailout as 'Britain shuts down'

The front pages are dominated by the government 's pledge to pay the wages of employees unable to work due to the coronavirus pandemic , as it orders cafes , pubs and restaurants to close .
Chancellor Rishi Sunak 's offer to pay the wages of those who ca n't work is `` historic '' , the Daily Mail , Independent and Daily Express all agree .
The Guardian says the intervention - a pledge to pay 80 % of salary for staff who are kept on by their employer , covering wages of up to £2,500 a month - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mirror says the move is `` so extraordinary '' that `` you had to triple check '' .
But the Daily Telegraph insists the measures are `` vital '' for protecting jobs after the the closure overnight of the hospitality and leisure industry - a move which , it points out , is `` unheard of , even in wartime '' .
The necessity for the action seems more urgent , given the suggestion by the paper that the number of people dying in Britain is rising faster than Italy .
It says @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Italy has risen by less than 20 % , while Britain is seeing them increase by 45 % .
A graph in the Times suggests a less gloomy comparison .
But the paper warns the early lower death rates could rise as the outbreak spreads into rural areas , where older people are more numerous .
The Mail describes the shutdown as the `` day Britain changed forever . ''
It 's a theme taken up several papers .
The Guardian 's Jonathan Freedland looks at the transformation within the UK over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deserted streets , the economy facing what could be `` a collapse more catastrophic than the Great Depression '' , the switch on social media from `` armchair Brexit experts miraculously reborn as amateur epidemiologists '' .
But the greatest change , Freedland detects , is the switch of emotion to fear .
Its columnist Fiona Phillips says gone is the UK 's world-renowned `` chivalry and orderly queuing '' .
In its place is a `` selfish , rapacious me-me-me Britain , '' she says , where `` crazed individualists '' stack @ @ @ @ @ @ @ says ministers have been told the government should `` promote a sense of collectivism '' to avoid the risk of panic buying progressing to looting and rioting .
The Mail makes a list of what is now open and closed in case of confusion .
Clothes shops , takeaways and hairdressers are still trading , while pubs , bookies and leisure centres have shut .
A photograph shows a restaurant in central London being boarded up .
But the Times warns that non-food stores may also be at risk unless they can stop @ @ @ @ @ @ @ survey indicates , are not following government advice , with only 37 % avoiding public transport .
Get news from the BBC in your inbox , each weekday morning People are also apparently not avoiding travelling further afield .
The manager of a shop in the Cornish resort of Polzeath tells the Guardian that out-of-towners are heading for their second homes .
She worries about the risks this could pose to elderly locals .
Cornish authorities are concerned , too , and have urged people to stay away .

But the Daily Telegraph insists the measures are "vital" for protecting jobs after the the closure overnight of the hospitality and leisure industry - a move which, it points out, is "unheard of, even in wartime".


bbcuk--2020-03-21--Coronavirus: Kimberley Finlayson, 52, dies on Bali break

The husband of a British woman who died in Bali after contracting coronavirus has said he has `` lost half of himself '' .
Kimberley Finlayson , 52 , had underlying health conditions and had two emergency operations in an Indonesian government hospital before dying on holiday .
The couple , from Hertfordshire , was able to say goodbye `` for a few minutes '' before her death on 11 March .
Ken Finlayson said he and his four children were `` absolutely devastated '' to lose her .
Mr Finlayson , from Shenley , warned others about travelling abroad @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wife might have been different if she had been treated in the UK .
`` The lesson for the British public to realise is that if you go to these places then people really mean well but you 're giving up that level of care which we expect , '' he said .
`` You are playing Russian roulette with your lives if you become critical .
`` Mistakes were being made .
I do n't believe ... if this had happened in Barnet Hospital , I believe our great NHS would have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dental communications company and was `` so powerful , courageous , supportive of all of us '' her widower said .
Mr Finlayson has tested negative for the virus so far but the UK government expects many people to be infected with the illness in the UK in the coming weeks and months .
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• GETTING READY : How prepared is the UK ?
• MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak He said there was an irony in the now-familiar @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to his wife , who had diabetes .
`` I do n't know many people in their 50s who have n't received medication , have n't had some health issues .
My wife is the most incredibly generous , loving mum . ''
Mrs Finlayson was reportedly the first British victim of coronavirus to be named .

"The lesson for the British public to realise is that if you go to these places then people really mean well but you're giving up that level of care which we expect," he said.


bbcuk--2020-03-21--Coronavirus: Teachers may be shared between schools on Monday

There is no set limit to the number of key workers ' children that schools can admit as long as it is safe .
That is according to guidance issued to schools in Northern Ireland by the Department of Education ( DE ) .
Teachers may be shared between schools to enable them to open on Monday , although normal school meals or transport are unlikely to be available .
Schools in Northern Ireland have closed due to coronavirus but should reopen for key workers ' children on Monday .
On Friday , Education Minister Peter Weir said only one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for a child to attend school .
Mr Weir previously said children whose parents provide `` essential goods and services '' should attend school .
He said he recognised some schools may not be ready on Monday .
In a letter to principals , DE 's permanent secretary Derek Baker said providing education to the children of key workers was the `` most complex '' issue facing education as a result of the coronavirus pandemic .
Schools are also expected to admit vulnerable children , including those with statements of special educational needs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 Mr Baker said principals should keep a record of the number of pupils attending their schools from Monday .
But there is no set limit to the number of pupils a school can admit as long as it is safe and in accordance with Public Health Authority ( PHA @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Baker said parents should be prepared to transport their children to school and provide them with a packed lunch .
Teachers can also bring their own children to their school if necessary .
`` Schools should also consider the needs of other schools in their area , '' Mr Baker wrote .
`` If a school does not have sufficient staffing levels to open , school leaders should liaise to explore whether staff can be shared between schools or children from more than one school should be accommodated on the same site .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ advice when determining the number of children allocated to each room . ''
Schools only have to open during normal school hours but `` this will be kept under review '' , according to Mr Baker .
Nursery schools , nursery units and special schools are also expected to open .
In a separate statement , Mr Weir said there was no `` perfect solution '' to the situation .
He said the department would monitor the take up of school places by key workers .
`` To be clear , both parents @ @ @ @ @ @ @ key workers , '' he said .
`` We will monitor and assess this situation in the days and weeks ahead and the number of schools which will need to remain open in the future will be revised in the light of this information , '' he said .
Many schools spent Friday contacting all parents of pupils about the arrangements they were putting in place .
Many principals told parents that due to safety measures they could not accommodate any more than 20 % of their existing number of pupils .
One @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , County Tyrone , said it will open at weekends for children of key workers .
In a message to parents , principal Sean Dillon said they would put arrangements in place for pupils early in the week .
`` We are extremely grateful to NHS staff for their work on all our behalf , we always want to acknowledge this , '' he said .
`` As a mark of this , we will also be opening Primate Dixon Primary School on Saturdays and Sundays for children of key workers . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ due to health and safety concerns they can not open to any pupils on Monday .
The Newry , South Down and Armagh principals group , for instance , said they supported healthcare workers `` unreservedly '' but needed more time to carry out risk assessments .
They issued a joint letter to parents in their schools on Friday evening .
`` With the lack of clarity , without a detailed operational plan from the Department of Education ( by close of business today ) and without appropriate protective measures in place , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ childcare for the children of key workers on Monday , '' they said .
`` We need adequate time to risk assess in our schools to ensure we can comply with Public Health Authority guidance relating to Personal Protective Equipment and social distancing . ''
Some principals in Fermanagh have sent similar messages to parents of pupils in their schools .
They also said that the safest place for children was at home until they received the necessary clarity about safety measures .

"We will monitor and assess this situation in the days and weeks ahead and the number of schools which will need to remain open in the future will be revised in the light of this information," he said.


bbcuk--2020-03-21--Coronavirus: 'No-one can attend my daughter's funeral'

A mother grieving for the death of her daughter has told how her family will celebrate her life in spite @ @ @ @ @ during the coronavirus crisis .
Holly Smallman , 18 , who appeared on the BBC @ @ @ @ @ had cerebral palsy , epilepsy and chronic lung disease .
She died last week .

A mother grieving for the death of her daughter has told how her family will celebrate her life in spite of the funeral restrictions imposed during the coronavirus crisis.
Holly Smallman, 18, who appeared on the BBC TV's Hospital programme, had cerebral palsy, epilepsy and chronic lung disease. She died last week.


bbcuk--2020-03-21--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 people not to visit loved ones on Mother 's Day .
The PM called on people 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 risk .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 .
• In pictures : First day of cafe and pub shutdown • 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ superb health care system .
And yet their doctors and nurses have been completely overwhelmed by the demand , '' he said .
`` 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 added he recognised the government was imposing measures `` never seen before either in peace or war '' - but said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 told all restaurants , cafes and pubs - as well as some other public spaces like gyms and cinemas - to close .
`` This time the best thing is to ring her , 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 ?
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 '' .
A Downing Street source later said his contact @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 help ensure essential items like groceries can be delivered to people who are at-risk .
The people 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 attend any gatherings of friends or families and do n't go out for shopping , leisure or travel .
`` Those of us who are less at risk can play our part in protecting other people by following the government 's advice on social distancing and volunteering to give extra @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at home . ''
According to the latest figures , there are 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 , the NHS said .
In the last 48 hours , thousands of retired medics have answered the government 's call to return to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ including 4,000 nurses and 500 doctors .
Earlier , the NHS announced it had struck a deal with private hospitals to get hold of thousands of extra beds , ventilators and medical staff .
The agreement will see the private sector reallocate almost its entire national hospital capacity to the NHS .
Under the terms of the deal , the private sector will be reimbursed at cost , meaning no profit will be made for doing so .
• Shoppers have been told to `` be responsible '' and think of others such @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The government also said there is no shortage of food • 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 • 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on by employers • The Big Issue magazine - which sells around 60,000 copies every week - will stop being sold from next week • Homeless people will be housed in hotels in central London to protect them against the virus , the Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said • The death toll passes 11,000 worldwide , as confirmed cases of coronavirus pass 280,000

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: British tourists stuck in Peru to be rescued next week

Rescue flights to bring back hundreds of British tourists stranded in Peru will begin next week , the Foreign Office has said .
Around 400 UK nationals are stuck in the South American country after it closed its borders and stopped all flights amid the coronavirus outbreak .
Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab secured permission for a UK flight to leave Peru , the Foreign Office said .
It added officials will work to arrange further flights in coming days .
The Peruvian government placed the country into lockdown last Monday , with no flights allowed to enter or leave without @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also in place between 20:00 and 5:00 and all shops are closed except for pharmacies and stores selling food .
Earlier this week , some of the Britons stuck in the country said they faced serious health problems or were running out of cash .
Many said they felt the UK government was not doing enough to get them home at a time when other nations - like Germany and Israel - were funding the high costs of repatriations .
On Saturday , the Foreign Office said Mr Raab had spoken to his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ flight to leave early next week .
Mr Raab tweeted : `` I had a good conversation this afternoon with my opposite number in Peru , Gustavo Meza-Cuadra .
`` Amidst all the challenges of tackling coronavirus , we committed to working together in the coming days to enable UK nationals in Peru and Peruvian nationals in the UK to return home . ''
• A SIMPLE GUIDE : What are the symptoms ?
• STRESS : How to protect your mental health • MAPS AND CHARTS : Visual guide to the outbreak @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will continue working closely with the Peruvian government to arrange further flights in coming days .
Earlier this week , the government said tourists must pay for their own airline tickets home once a flight becomes available .
At that time , the only commercial carrier that had offered to help was charging $ 3,000- $ 3,500 ( £2,570-£3,000 ) for a one-way ticket - almost 10 times the normal price It comes as the number of people who have died in the UK with coronavirus rose to 233 , as cases topped @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Danielle Cook , 32 , and her partner Matthew Houghton , 34 , from Yorkshire are among those stuck in Peru .
Ms Cook 's father died a few days ago .
`` My family has not been able to make any funeral arrangements and I feel so guilty being here , '' she says .
The couple and nine others , including Dutch and Canadian travellers , had gone to Peru to see the mountain Machu Picchu , but they are all now holed up at an Airbnb in Cusco .
Also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , who said : `` We ca n't go anywhere , we are stuck in our hotel - we are only allowed to go out to get food , money or medication .
`` I have a heart condition , so being at high altitudes it is fine for a few days but we do n't know long how we 'll be here for . ''
Read more from the tourists stuck in Peru .

Also stranded is 70-year-old Ffred Ffrancis from Wales, who said: "We can't go anywhere, we are stuck in our hotel - we are only allowed to go out to get food, money or medication.