THE British Red Cross has set up a free phone line service to help individuals during to coronavirus pandemic.

Members of the 'psychosocial and mental health' team at the charity will be on-hand to provide practical and emotional support, for anything from accessing food or medicines to dealing with loneliness.

Norman McKinley, executive director of UK operations at the British Red Cross, said: "We want to make sure that people are getting the help they need during the isolation period.

"We’re especially worried about those who may not be in contact with organisations or support networks, who could ‘fall through the cracks’.

"Our volunteers are taking calls from people who are struggling to get hold of medicines or food – especially those who are shielding at the moment.

"Our volunteers are all trained in psycho-social skills.

"They can provide a listening ear, practical advice, and signpost people to organisations in their area that can help.

"Having someone on the end of the phone when you feel most alone can be a lifeline in times like this."

The free support line will be staffed by experienced Red Cross psychosocial volunteers, many of whom have worked on previous emergency responses, which was first launched to help people during the infected blood enquiry, the Grenfell Tower fire and the terror attacks of 2017.

Volunteers are already working in communities across the UK to support those made most vulnerable by the coronavirus outbreak, from food distributions to ambulance support and welfare checks.

If you or someone you know needs help, call the free Red Cross coronavirus support line on 0808 196 3651 to speak to a friendly volunteer.

Volunteers from the support line can refer people to local projects or contact Red Cross community teams who can help.

The support line is open daily from 10am to 6pm and is completely confidential.

For more information about the British Red Cross visit www.redcross.org.uk