The Somerset Coronavirus Support Helpline number, 0300 790 6275, is now live and will make it easier for people in Street to access any local authority help they may need, including emotional support, in the current crisis.

It links together the district and county council contact centres and will be operating seven days a week, 8am to 6pm, making it the one number you need to remember for coronavirus-related enquiries.

The district and county councils' usual phone numbers will be running as normal alongside the new number, for non-coronavirus related issues.

The new number won't cover medical advice, for which people will need to continue to use the 111 NHS online service and only ring 111 if they cannot get help online.

Anyone who can't find help within their own local networks and volunteers, can use the new number to get help and advice around:

Personal care and support including food and delivery of prescriptions

Support for the homeless

Emotional support if you're feeling worried or anxious

Transport to medical appointments

Waste collection and disposal

Financial support

The 0300 790 6275 number is being staffed by the five councils in Somerset and will be available seven days per week from 8am to 6pm.

Callers will be asked to describe the support they require and will be connected with others for resolution.

Meanwhile, the five councils in Somerset are getting in touch with people on their database that may be vulnerable to see if they need assistance with anything like supplies of food, help with transport and other support.

If people are interested in volunteering, for example helping people out with shopping or picking up prescriptions, they can go here to register.