AS the death toll of patients in Dorset that have tested positive for COVID-19 continues to rise, councils are teaming up with key and emergency services to prepare for the peak of the pandemic.
A specialist group has been formed to manage the expected rise in deaths relating to the coronavirus outbreak and is investigating the capacity of burial sites across the county.
A spokesperson for Dorset Council said: "We are working with all agencies to plan for the peak of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Through the Local Resilience Forum we have established an Excess Death Advisory Group (EDAG) for Dorset, the group has representatives from Dorset Council, BCP Council, The Coroner, Dorset Police, The Fire Service, The Royal Bournemouth and Christchurch Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Dorset County Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, plus Funeral Director and voluntary sector representation.
"The group is looking at the process for managing deaths relating to COVID-19 and will provide a joined-up response across Dorset. Town and Parish Councils and Joint Burial Committees play a key role and they have been contacted to see what capacity they have in preparation for coronavirus deaths."
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