VULNERABLE people in Dorset will have recently received a letter from the NHS, telling them they are at high risk of catching coronavirus and advising them to stay at home and strictly self-isolate for 12 weeks.

Dorset Council is putting plans in place with its partners from across public, voluntary and community and charity sectors to give these people the help they need.

A Dorset COVID-19 Response Hub has been set up to help people get enough food and necessities, receive support and know how how to access help.

The COVID–19 Response Hub can be contacted on 01305 221022, 8am to 8pm, seven days a week. Alternatively, you can email communityresponse@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk.

Dorset Council portfolio holder for Health and Adult Social Care, Cllr Laura Miller said: “We are doing our very best to make sure that those people who are identified as extremely vulnerable because of the coronavirus will be fully supported.

“If you, or someone you know, is vulnerable because they are self-isolating and cannot get access to food or medicine, they have care needs or are at risk of loneliness and isolation call the helpline and trained staff can help you get the things you need.”

If you do not receive a letter from the NHS but still need help and support to get essential supplies, you can find more information on volunteer organisations on our website www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/coronavirus or by contacting Age UK on enquiries@ageuknswd.org.uk or 01305 269444. You can also register to volunteer on the website.