A Preston yoga centre is fundraising to help people who are bereaved during the coronavirus lockdown.

Mandala Yoga and Wellbeing, which is located in the city centre, will use funds to provide emotional support to people who are grieving without a proper funeral or physical contact from friends and family.

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Owner Emma Lowther-Wright said: “An awful lot of people are going to be affected by restricted funeral arrangements and not being able to have a wake or scatter ashes, or spend time with family and friends.

“Grieving is a difficult and painful process and to do so without the physical support of loved ones or the opportunity to spend as much time as possible outside in nature is particularly challenging.

“As a sound therapist I treat a lot of people who are struggling with mental health because of grief. It’s concerning that so many people will be struggling to find their way through grief without the presence of friends and family, so I want to be able to ensure there are support services available once social distancing measures are lifted.”

Read more: Deaths to be registered over the phone to prevent spread of coronavirus

During the pandemic, Mandala wants to offer free online courses and classes for those experiencing bereavement, financial hardship, anxiety and loneliness.

Once social distancing rules have been lifted, the centre plans to offer free four-week gentle yoga courses and relaxation therapy for those who have lost loved ones during the pandemic. If they raise enough, along with match-funding from the National Lottery, free counselling will also be available.

Referrals will be taken from Local Authority registry offices, housing associations, debt advisory firms, and funeral directors.

Anyone making a pledge through the Mandala Crowdfunder page will receive a reward.

Read more: First Preston firms to receive emergency government funding this week

What do you think of Mandala’s efforts to support people through grief during this difficult time? Let us know in the comments.