Merle Boddy Centre in Swaffham expects to stay in 'full action' during lockdown

A market town’s mental health service will continue to operate during the lockdown period with social distancing ‘bubbles’.

The Merle Boddy Centre in Swaffham is open every week day between 9.30am and 2.30pm, providing support for people living with mental health problems, including dementia and other disabilities.

Marketing director Ian Pilcher said: “We are expecting to stay in full action and will continue to use the bubbles for clients so that there is not too much strain on staff.

“It will be running very smoothly and there is total appreciation. Everyone seems to be enjoying themselves.”

The centre has launched a new fundraising campaign for the challenging lockdown period.

The website states: "This is a difficult time for everybody. Our usual fundraising activity has stopped, but Georgie [Bell, manager] and the team continue to work and provide a great mental health service at the Merle Boddy Centre. As a charity, we need you now more than ever.

"We’ve created a virtual donation bucket to enable us to raise some money and continue to provide our much needed mental health service. If everyone gives a little and shares a lot, with you, we can continue to serve the community. Thank you."

Visit www.merleboddy.org.uk/fundraising to donate.