A DEDICATED hotline has been set up to help the most vulnerable through the coronavirus outbreak.

Chiefs at Redcar and Cleveland Council have created a phone line and email for those who need non-medical help during self-isolation.

Leaders have also followed the lead of neighbouring Teesside councils by setting up a bespoke Facebook community page to steer those in need towards community groups and volunteers.

Anyone who needs non-medical help in the borough is urged to call 01642 774774 or email support@redcar-cleveland.gov.uk.

About 1.5m of the most vulnerable people in the UK have been urge to self-isolate and stay in their homes for the next 12 weeks.

Cllr Steve Kay said people were worried about being alone for some time but the council was “here to help”.

The cabinet member added: “Our dedicated phone line and email address is there for people we can help directly. It could be for social welfare problems or information on business support.

“Our committed officers are there to help people in genuine need wherever possible or put people in touch with the right organisations.

“We’re also aiming to help the vulnerable and make life easier when people are self-isolating so they feel they have someone to help and support them.”

A Facebook group entitled the “Redcar and Cleveland Coronavirus Support Group” has also been set up to help steer folk towards voluntary help in the borough.