A MORTUARY in a giant airport hanger for people who die from coronavirus in the West Midlands and Warwickshire is now open.
The temporary facility at Birmingham Airport, called the West Midlands and Warwickshire Mortuary, is to accommodate the increased number of deaths in the region during the pandemic.
It is expected to receive bodies and care for the deceased until funeral arrangements are made.
West Midlands Police said it is a secured facility, adding: “The facility will maintain respect and dignity to those who have died at all times. For this reason there is no viewing facility at the site.
“In response to the increase in community deaths, a Pandemic Multi-Agency Response Team (PMART) has also been set up to provide the best possible service to those who lose loved ones during the current crisis.
“The team, made up of paramedics, police and fire officers, and funeral directors, respond to sudden deaths in the community to make the process of recording the death, notifying next of kin and transfer of the deceased as smooth and considerate as possible, while protecting those involved from potential exposure to Covid-19.”
Senior Birmingham Coroner Louise Hunt said: “Our priority, as always, is dignity and respect for the deceased, as well as the safety of our key workers.
“We understand that it is a very difficult time for everyone and we will do all that we can to make sure bereaved families understand what is happening to their loved ones and to release them for funeral as soon as we can.”
The police added: “West Midlands Police, HM Coroners, the NHS and local authorities are working closely with all faiths and people of no faith, alongside funeral directors to ensure that we deal with all deaths in a compassionate manner.”
