The ever-changing situation regarding coronavirus has led to Mountbatten making further changes to its services.

The John Cheverton Centre at Mountbatten Hospice has now closed to all visitors and all outpatient appointments for the foreseeable future will be carried out on the telephone.

The decision has been taken as part of Mountbatten’s ongoing efforts to protect its vulnerable patients and its staff, volunteers and other visitors.

People who regularly use services at the centre are being contacted to make alternative arrangements.

Anyone visiting the inpatient unit will now have to use the main reception entrance, where a call entry system will be in place at all times.

Mountbatten plans to man reception between 8am and 8pm, seven days a week. Posters informing people about these arrangements will be placed where appropriate.

All visitors will be asked about their recent travel movements and any possible symptoms before they enter the hospice.

Mountbatten has already suspended training and education to external groups and stopped groups who meet at the hospice until further notice.

People have been urged to keep following government advice and visit Mountbatten’s website and for updates. The current arrangements will be reviewed after the Easter weekend.

“This has been a very difficult decision but one we feel we have to make at this unprecedented time,” said Nigel Hartley, Mountbatten CEO.

“We are all feeling anxious about this situation and we all want to do the very best for the hundreds of people we care for at the hospice and across the Island on a daily basis, as well as our staff and our volunteers.

“We will do everything possible to ensure we stay engaged with our community because during these very challenging times, we must stick together and support each other as much as possible.

“Please take good care and thank you for all your support and kindness during this very challenging time.”

Anyone needing help or advice can call us on (01983) 533331 at any time.

Mountbatten volunteers with any queries can call Sally List on 01983 217368.