The UK Covid-19 Inquiry is coming to Southampton for the first time.

On Thursday, October 17, and Friday, October 18, people are invited to share their pandemic experiences with the inquiry team at The Marlands Shopping Centre from 11.30am until 7pm.

This is part of the "Every Story Matters" community events, where the public can meet the team and share how the pandemic affected them.

Inquiry Secretary Ben Connah said: "From day one of the Inquiry we have wanted to hear experiences from all corners of the country, from people in all walks of life. This will ensure we get a full picture of the pandemic’s impact on people living and working across the UK.

"At our Every Story Matters event, people can come down to The Marlands Shopping Centre in Southampton to meet with the Inquiry team, to have a chat and to tell their story. It's incredibly important that local people get the chance to inform the work we’re doing.

"To date, over 47,000 people have contributed to Every Story Matters. In September of this year the first Every Story Matters Record was published, focusing on Healthcare. Now we want to hear from the people of Hampshire."

The inquiry team is travelling across the country to hear people's stories, offering a chance to talk about the impact of the pandemic without the formality of giving evidence or attending a public hearing.

People will have the chance to speak to inquiry staff to learn more about "Every Story Matters" and share their pandemic experiences in different ways.

Counsellors will also be on hand to provide emotional support if needed.

"Every Story Matters" aims to support the UK Covid-19 Inquiry's legal investigations by providing evidence about the pandemic's human impact on the UK population.

This will help inquiry chairwoman Baroness Hallett make recommendations for the future.

The event is a chance for people to contribute to a broader understanding of the pandemic's effect on everyday life in the UK.

The stories will be used to help shape future responses to similar situations.