A CHILDREN'S charity has announced it's shutting up shop because of the Coronavirus.

Brathay, which is registered at Brathay Hall, Ambleside, works with families, children and young people to improve life chances by getting them to engage in their communities.

The charity has vowed to be up and running again as soon as it is safe to do so.

In a statement a spokeswoman said: "Due to the developing situation regarding the Coronavirus pandemic, we have taken the very difficult decision to close all our centres and offices for the time being.

"During this period of crisis, Brathay is operating on a core staff team, working remotely from home.

"Please note that many of our staff have been furloughed and may not answer emails and phone calls directed to them.

"We will continue to follow official guidance; the safety of everyone involved in our programmes, both young people and adults, is our number one priority.

"That is always at the heart of our decision making.

"It goes without saying that we are devastated that we will be unable to continue delivering our usual full range of important residential and community programmes with children, young people and families at this very difficult and worrying time for everyone.

"We remain committed to young people and their wellbeing during this challenging time.

"For this reason, the majority of our core staff are workers remotely supporting young people and their families and we will continue to sustain this support for as long as it is needed and sustainable for us to do so."

For information email: hello@brathay.org.uk

For information, or to donate go online: www.brathay.org.uk