WORCESTERSHIRE charities say they will continue their work as long as they are able to during the Covid-19 outbreak.
But they stress they will need donations and support more than ever, after being forced to cancel vital fundraising events.
June Patel, St Richard’s Hospice chief executive, told the paper that at the heart of the decisions they were making was the protection of patients and families, staff, volunteers and supporters.
Mrs Patel said: “In these challenging times, we aim to maintain our services – within guidelines from the NHS and government – to ensure we can support patients and loved ones.
"This will mean different ways of working in some areas: for example, our Living Well services are switching to a virtual model, where support will be given remotely – such as by video calls, over the phone, and in virtual clinics.
"Our Senior Management Team and clinical heads of departments are meeting daily to agree preparations and actions, based on advice from government and health experts.
“At a time when our income from fundraising events and our shops is compromised, the support of our wonderful community is more important than ever.
"We are asking our supporters to consider making a donation online, if they are able to do so, at strichards.org.uk/donate. We would like to thank the community for its continued support and understanding during these uncertain times.”
Age UK Herefordshire and Worcestershire was bringing in a variety of changes starting from today, following recent government advice.
Magda Praill, the branch's chief operating officer said: “Whatever happens we wont let Worcestershire’s elderly be isolated and alone.
"We won’t be able to do face-to-face meetings, but we will keep in contact. And we would encourage people to continue to volunteer.”
Meanwhile the Midlands Air Ambulance was forced to cancel fundraisers planned for the spring. Hanna Sebright, the charity's chief executive, said: “At this challenging time, more than ever we rely on your support.
"Please continue to give so that we can continue to operate our fleet of helicopters and critical care cars. Visit our website for ways to support and follow our charity on social media.”
Chancellor Rishi Sunak has previously announced a “coronavirus business interruption loan scheme” for banks to offer loans of up to £1.2m to support small and medium-sized businesses. A treasury spokesman said charities were entitled to apply for loans through the scheme.
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