Temporary morgue to be run by volunteers set up in Dunfermline factory

The site would be run by volunteers and plans for a "worst case scenario" were put in place in the event that NHS Fife could not cope with the number of people killed by the virus.

Thankfully, up to now, it hasn't been needed.

A report that went before councillors last Thursday confirmed: "Fife Council has addressed the potential demand for additional body storage capacity due to deaths from COVID-19 by leasing a factory unit with refrigeration capacity in Dunfermline.

"The building has been serviced and adapted by the council and external contractors over the last few weeks to ensure that a respectful resting place has been provided.

"The site is for use only if the enhanced body storage capacity provided by the NHS becomes insufficient to cope with any additional demand and would be able to become operational at short notice.

"It is anticipated that the site would operate 24/7."

Temporary morgues were set up across the UK to cope with the rising death toll from coronavirus with the aim of locating the resting places, where possible, in discreet locations and away from homes to avoid distress to local residents.

NHS Fife previously said they would not confirm the location of any sites.

The council report, written by community manager Tim Kendrick, said: "A pool of 22 volunteers from Fife Council’s workforce would operate the site and would be managed directly by staff from NHS Fife.

"The volunteers have been issued with temporary NHS contracts to facilitate this and undergone appropriate occupational health assessments.

"Training for the volunteers started on May 5.

"Multi-agency meetings are ongoing to analyse the predicted numbers of deaths and the logistics surrounding these.

"As per Scottish Government guidance, preparations have been made for a reasonable worst case scenario.

"However. it is very much hoped that the facilities provided by NHS will cover the demand and the unit will not be required."