CHARITIES and caring community groups have taken it upon themselves to look out for isolated and elderly neighbours as the fallout from the coronavirus pandemic grips the country.

With Health Secretary Matt Hancock’s recent announcement that people over the the age of 70 will soon be asked to stay at home for up to four months, fears have been raised about the toll such a measure will take.

Age Concern Colchester is already busying itself with precautions to ensure its services can continue for as long as feasibly possible.

Its offices in Colchester and Clacton have been closed until further notice as part of a self-isolation programme.

Teams are still working from home, but home visits have been suspended.

In a statement, the charity said: “As soon as we can attend home visits we will do so immediately.”

The charity’s chief executive Simon Prestney said: “Some people we support may not survive four months without it. We recognise there is a tipping point and we are taking action in a phased approach in line with the advice and are monitoring developments daily.”

“One of our key values is being excellent at whatever we do and this includes supporting others during a time of crisis.”

The charity’s group of 130 befrienders, who regularly visit isolated people, have been asked to call in advance to check their clients are well enough for a visit.

“Our fall back position if the situation continues to escalate is to revert to telephone befriending,” said Mr Prestney.

“Any befrienders concerned about their health or the health of those we serve can make this call now if they feel this is the right decision for either of them and the team are on hand to support if required.

“In the call we aim to continue friendship but also introduce questions regarding medication and supplies.

“Either directly or through social action groups, we will aim to support those in need.

“For example, our befrienders may be able to complete some shopping for the person they befriend or pick up medication if they are running low on supplies.”

Hundreds of groups have been set up by well-meaning residents to support elderly and isolated neighbours.

Mr Prestney encouraged people to lend a hand where possible and said the charity must adapt in a similar manner to ensure it continues to support the elderly.

He said: “We have developed a fall back plan that means for the majority of individuals we will switch to a phone conversation to ensure they are still able to get their entitlement progressed.

“We may need to collect paperwork from homes and if this is a practical way you can support then please let us know.”

As part of a team of 20 residents, Stephen Elliot, 40, from Fingringhoe, has reached out to neighbours to ensure no-one is left alone.

Leaflets containing the contact details of nearby helpers have been dropped through around 320 letterboxes in the village.

“This is in the hope of looking after those who have self-isolated, in particular those over 70 as per the Government’s intentions,” said Stephen.

“It’s been a huge effort, and one I believe shows amazing spirit and support.”

The leaflet project has been led by GP Dr Katherine Patel.

Sharon Robinson, from Mistley, created a social media hub on the Manningtree Shout Out Facebook page in a bid to offer help.

She said the parish councils, rotary club, food bank, taxi companies and a wealth of volunteers are part of the hub to help those who have any questions of need help.

The group is aimed at residents in and around Manningtree, Mistley, Lawford and Bradfield.

Mrs Robinson said: “If people aren’t on Facebook, help can be reached via emailing sharonrobinson163@yahoo.com or calling 01206 970382.”

Weeley and Tendring ward councillor, Peter Harris, has called on Good Samaritans in the district to look out for elderly residents in need.

He suggested those without families may particularly struggle and locals should pull-together to help them with things like going shopping.

“It is really important that we all look to help our vulnerable neighbours across our community and make sure they are okay,” said Mr Harris.

“It would great to have a network of volunteers right across Tendring and I would be very grateful to hear from any local resident able to volunteer or offer support.”

And Sean Duffy, a teacher at Clacton County High School, has approached Tendring Council with a plan to alert people to elderly residents who might need support.

He said: “We have never seen anything quite like this before - it is mostly unprecedented and therefore people are anxious over what the future may look like.“So, In order to support the elderly and those most in need, we must come together - it is essential that we support those most at risk first.

“In my proposal I say we provide all elderly residents, starting with those who live alone, with a sign to display in their windows.

“This way, neighbours will know that they need support during this time.”

Essex County Council, in collaboration with other groups, has set up a social media page to assist vulnerable people.

Essex Coronavirus Action offers advice and points people towards individuals who may be able to help.

To sign up as a volunteer, visit bit.ly/ecaformvolunteers.

People wishing to take up a volunteer role with Age Concern as a befriender can visit ageconcerncolchester.org.uk.