WOULD-be volunteers are reminded they can still help communities and those most in need during the coronavirus pandemic.

The five councils in Somerset are working together to co-ordinate a countywide network of support for the most vulnerable people.

Things that they would be asked do include:

Collect and deliver shopping or medicines – leaving deliveries on the doorstep or safe place to avoid close physical contact.

Put out bins or taking in parcels.

Help others to use Skype or FaceTime so they can see a friendly face, helping to reduce their isolation.

Help to care for pets.

Deliver books and magazines or materials to support hobbies, such as wool for knitting or art materials.

Reassure people with accurate and up-to-date advice and information and signposting people to other sources of help if needed.

Such volunteers are advised not to enter homes, to keep a two-metre distance from the person they are helping, to wash their hands before and after a delivery and to wear protective gloves throughout.

They should cancel and make alternative arrangements if the person they are supporting is feeling unwell.

Spark Somerset has set up a website where people who want to offer help are encouraged to register. Go to www.corona-helpers.co.uk/.

Further advice and guidance for community groups can be found at www.sparksomerset.org.uk/guidance-cov-19-groups.

The NHS has launched a campaign for volunteers, which can be accessed at www.goodsamapp.org/NHS.

A Somerset County Council spokesman said the authority recognises how critically important the work of volunteers and local charitable groups is at this time, and wishes to them for all the support provided so far. appeal