CHARITIES across the district have been left reeling as the nation faces even tighter restrictions on every day life.

The speed in which the 'lockdown' has happened has seen organisations hit with dozens of issues including fewer staff and volunteers.

Many have had to cancel key fundraising events in their calendar. All are left trying to assess what this will mean for their futures.

Naomi House and Jacksplace, the children's hospices in Sutton Scotney, have suspended all respite care plans, and marketing manager Keith Wilson told the Chronicle the charity is facing a "massive shortfall" in this year's fundraising.

He said: "We're having to cancel some of our biggest fundraising events, including the Clarendon Way walk, which has been postponed until at least autumn. There's no way we will raise as much as we intend.

"There will be a massive shortfall in fundraising and it will leave a big hole. We have received incredible support so far and we have a dedicated and innovative fundraising team behind us, as well as our trustees.

"No doubt, there will be issues. Noone knows how the economy is going to look after this, but thankfully we are at no immediate risk."

Winchester Churches Nightshelter, which offers food, accommodation and support to the homeless, has announced it will remain open 24 hours a day – but will also need more volunteers to help.

Chief executive Michèle Price said: "We are appealing to people eager to do something positive to help vulnerable people during these difficult times.

"Perhaps you are a chef at a pub or restaurant which is currently closed and you would be willing to help cook and serve evening meals to our residents.

"Or maybe you could cook 12 portions of food to be reheated by each resident. Maybe you are in a job which can’t be done from home and so you are able to help us to keep on supporting this vulnerable sector of society.”

The shelter has put stringent cleaning processes in place, prepared a designated self-isolation room, strict new staff and volunteer procedures have been communicated, and residents have been briefed on how to reduce chances of infection.

Hampshire-based charity Community First is appealing for more volunteers.

It is continuing some of its services including transport, Shopmobility and other wellbeing programmes.

"We are working with a wide range of agencies and groups to ensure that elderly and vulnerable members of our communities are supported at this difficult time," said CEO Tim Houghton.

"If you are worried about a neighbour, friend or isolated relative we can signpost you to the local community support that’s available."

To volunteer, visit www.volunteerwessex.org.

In Bishop's Waltham, a number of community organisations including Meon Valley Heartstart have been working with the parish council as volunteers to help self isolating people.

David Williamson, who is a member of the charity which offers training in lifesaving techniques, said: "Our volunteers, a total of 31, have been going round to those in need and delivering groceries and helping in any way possible.

"It's not just our charity, I'm unsure of the numbers but it'll be well above 100 in our town. We can't do training at the moment as it's face-to-face, but we want to help."

Samaritans Winchester has published guidance on what to do during the coronavirus if you are worried about mental health.

The can be found on the branch's website.

The Chronicle has contacted dozens of local charities and awaits a response from most.