Coronavirus: A message from Commissioner Anthony Cotterill

Commissioner Anthony Cotterill, leader of The Salvation Army in the United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland said:

"The Salvation Army works with some of the most vulnerable people in society and as we face the worst public health crisis in our life time, people on the margins of society need us now more than ever.

"Every night, thousands of people live under a Salvation Army roof in our network of safe houses for victims of trafficking, elderly care facilities and Life Houses for homeless people. We will not retreat when our communities need us but we will also be responsible citizens. Significant work is underway across the country to prioritise work with vulnerable people while following the Government's public health advice. As well as developing plans to ensure our essential services are able to continue to operate, we are supporting our network of 650 corps (churches) to amend their community work so that it focusses on supporting the most vulnerable and isolated while also protecting themselves.

"I call upon everyone to:

• PRAY: Every day at noon please pray for all the people around the world impacted by the coronavirus.
• CLEAN: The best defence against coronavirus is good personal hygiene. Follow all the advice from the public health experts.
• CARE: People at higher risk of serious illness from the coronavirus (over 65s, people with a pre-existing health condition and those who live with such a person) are encouraged to be very careful. Let's all look out for and care for people in these circumstances.

"The Salvation Army is particularly concerned about people who are homeless, especially those who are forced to sleep rough. We are worried that as the virus spreads these people will be among those whose very lives will come under threat. It is essential that rough sleepers are properly diagnosed and cared for as part of the coronavirus response.

"The Salvation Army anticipates many people will turn to our centres for help in these turbulent times. We are working hard to deliver our regular services and ensure a safe, welcoming place for everyone."