EMERGENCY support with food supplies, medication and measures to combat loneliness are being rolled out in Redcar and Cleveland.

The borough’s most isolated and “at risk” residents are to receive the aid in response to covid-19 – with a new hotline now up and running to field pleas for help.

Last week, more than one million extremely vulnerable people were urged by the government to shield themselves for at least 12 weeks.

Now Redcar and Cleveland Council has set up a new dedicated hotline for those needing help on 01642 771122 – with officials urging anyone who needs help and can’t get it elsewhere to get in touch.

Leaflets are also set to drop onto doormats this week with information on access to support and how to volunteer.

Officials say more than 1,200 residents, businesses and community groups have signed up to the Redcar and Cleveland Coronavirus Support Group – with offers of volunteers from Beyond Housing and Cleveland Fire Brigade.

Council leader Cllr Mary Lanigan said there were challenging times ahead: “Things are going to be difficult for so many people. The council has a huge role to play over the coming months and we’re going to do all we can to help the most vulnerable people in the borough.

“We know that many people who are self-isolating will be supported by family, friends or neighbours – but there are others who may not be so fortunate and will need a helping hand or maybe just someone to talk to.

“If that is the case, we’ll do our best to help.

“That could be direct support from the council – or one of the many established local voluntary and community groups, or our staff using their expertise to put residents in touch with any specialist services they need.”

Anyone in the borough needing support or advice related to covid-19 can contact the dedicated phone number or email: support@redcar-cleveland.gov.uk