The University of Sussex and Brighton and Sussex Medical School (BSMS) have acted quickly to respond to requests from health and government authorities to assist during the coronavirus crisis.
The University of Sussex last week set up a task force to co-ordinate such requests, working quickly to provide the NHS, central government departments and local councils with the resources, equipment and services that they need.
Now, BSMS and the university are assisting Brighton & Hove City Council by preparing our existing anatomy facilities and new specifically-designed units to be used as temporary body storage during the coronavirus crisis, should they be needed.
At such a difficult time we want to support our partners and the local community. The team at BSMS are used to caring for the deceased and are confident that they can offer the same dignity, care and compassion that is provided by the City Mortuary.
Authorities in Sussex have identified a small number of sites across the county for the facilities and the university was considered the most suitable in the Brighton & Hove area.
The temporary arrangement will make use of existing specialist facilities within BSMS, with additional units being installed at the edge of the campus in car park 5, near the university’s Sports Centre, to be used if required. This is at the furthest possible location from residences on campus.
Out of respect for everyone involved, the facility will be completely screened from the outside. The Council will provide 24-hour security.