COVID-19 Coronavirus update

COVID-19 is a new illness that can affect your lungs and airways. It is caused by a virus called Coronavirus.

The symptoms of Coronavirus can be more severe in people with weakened immune systems, older people and those with long-term and life-limiting illnesses.

As the situation develops the type and amount of support may vary according to changing needs and resources.  The Trustees, Senior staff and specialist consultants are meeting regularly to manage the ongoing situation.

Our aim will continue to be to provide support to those with the greatest need.

Visiting the Hospice

At Francis House we always follow strict infection control guidelines however it is now necessary to limit the number of visits and this may mean the limiting of numbers of family members who accompany, stay and visit the young people using the Hospice.

Families, Staff and Volunteers

The symptoms of Covid-19 are:

1. Fever or high temperature
2. Sudden onset of a persistent cough
3. Shortness of breath

If you or anyone in your household has any of these symptoms or has been tested positive, has been in contact with someone with Coronavirus or have been advised to self-isolate, then you should not come to the Hospice for any reason.

If you have any concerns follow government or NHS advice.

If you are coming to the Hospice (including visits to the Fundraising Office) it is important that you adhere to infection control measures.

Handwashing is the most effective method of limiting the spread of infection.

Fundraising

It is important for the Hospice to maintain its income streams and fundraising during this crisis is going to be extremely difficult.

Many of our events have already been cancelled or postponed, including the Open Day (which was to be held on the 18^th May).

For details of the events please keep in contact by visiting our event listings on our website or by telephoning 0161 443 2200.

If you have already enrolled on an event which has been cancelled please contact the individual organiser for further information or email fundraising@francishouse.org.uk

Please keep in touch and we will update information as it becomes available.

The next few months are going to be difficult for all of us and we are conscious that each of our loyal supporters is dealing with the effect on their health and way of life.

We hope that you will still be able to spare time to remember the Francis House families and assure you that you are all in our thoughts and prayers.

Every blessing.

David & Gill

David Ireland, Chief Executive Officer

Gill Bevin, Registered Manager and Director of Care

Page last updated 20th March 2020