AN EMERGENCY hotline has been set up to offer the most vulnerable people in the area advice and to arrange deliveries of food and vital medicine.

As part of their response to the coronavirus pandemic, Cheshire West and Chester Council has launched the dedicated helpline, 0300 123 7031, which will run seven days a week from 8am to 7pm.

It will provide advice and support, and where necessary make arrangements for food, medicines and social contact.

The helpline will also assist those at a higher risk from serious complications as a result of COVID 19 infection.

The government is now advising people with the most serious underlying conditions to remain in strict isolation, to protect themselves and the NHS.

Councils across the country have now established local hubs, to support people to access food, medical supplies and social support. This has been achieved by co-ordinating work between front-line council and NHS staff, partner agencies, local and national businesses and volunteers.

More than 1,500 people have responded to Cheshire West and Chester’s call for a community response, to help ensure that physical distancing doesn’t need to mean social isolation.

People in the most vulnerable groups, based on their medical condition, are being contacted by the government, and referred onto help from their local council if they can’t meet their needs with the help of friends and families. The first packages of support have now been received.

Louise Gittins, leader of the council said: “Whilst we understand that everyone now faces an enormous challenge from the unprecedented limitations put on our daily life by the coronavirus outbreak, we need to focus our resources on supporting those members of our community who are vulnerable to serious medical complications as a result of infection from COVID 19.

"We’ve had an inspiring reaction from individuals and businesses who want to help at this time of crisis. Our co-ordinated community response has already begun to ‘shield’ those of our residents who are most at risk, and we stand in solidarity and support for our most vulnerable residents at this challenging time.”

The Council has set up a Community Fund of £250,000 to help local causes as West Cheshire aims to fight COVID-19 together.

More local information on ‘Coping at home with Coronavirus’ can be found at www.livewell.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk.

Residents can also email on enquiries@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk