A DEDICATED phone line has been set up to support residents self-isolating due to the coronavirus.

The newly-established Trafford Community Response Line gives residents a direct line to the help they need, including shopping telephone support and food parcels.

It has been set up by a number of Trafford organisations including Citizens Advice Bureau, Trafford Council, Trafford Housing Trust and voluntary sector infrastructure organisation Thrive.

Residents can call 0300 3309073, which will be operational from Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 5.30pm, to be signposted to one of the five community response hubs in Altrincham, Gorse Hill, Partington, Sale and Urmston.

A Trafford Council spokesman said the community response to Covid-19 has been “incredible” and there are many voluntary organisations looking to recruit volunteers to help support the work of the Trafford Community Response Hubs.

If you have skills and time that you would like to offer please contact the council via www.thrivetrafford.org.uk

You can register your interest at this website and the council can put you in touch with organisations that need more volunteers.

Residents are being encouraged to use the link if you are part of a local business and would like to support the scheme. Full training will be given by the scheme's supporters.

Cllr Joanne Harding, Trafford Council’s executive member for adult social care, said: “We know that people want to be good neighbours and we encourage you to be that person. Please do so safely and follow Government guidance on self-isolation and social distancing.

“Please shop responsibly and help us all get through this together. If you wish to make a donation of food please call the Trafford Community Response Line and you will be advised how to do this.

“Trafford Council would like to thank all of the community groups, Facebook pages and individuals who are pulling together to support our Trafford communities.

“It is up to each and every one of us to act responsibly and prevent the spread of this virus.

“Please do consider offering your support to the Trafford Community Response Hubs if you would like to formally volunteer and we can support that need us the most during these difficult times.”