Age UK Leicestershire and Rutland have set up a special new coronavirus hotline

Age UK Leicestershire and Rutland launched a special new coronavirus hotline on Monday March 23 for older people.

The organisation has set up the new helpline to support the elderly – who are most at risk from the dangerous illness.

The helpline number is 0116 299 2239 and it is open from 9am-5pm from Monday to Friday.

You will be able to talk to specially-trained Age UK staff to secure practical and emotional support.

Executive director Tony Donovan said: “We’ve had a fantastic response from people wanting to support the vital work we are doing.

“We all need to support each other through the coming months.

“We’re asking for volunteers, food and toiletry donations but realise that this may be difficult for many people to do, so we have also set up a dedicated #LeicsCovidCare, Coronavirus appeal fundraising page.”

He added: "Anyone wishing to make a donation of whatever size, to support Age UK Leicestershire & Rutland’s work at this very difficult time, can donate via Virgin Money Giving via the following link https://bit.ly/3dd0bmn”

Everyone aged over 70 is being told to isolate themselves for at least 12 weeks in a bid to avoid catching the highly-contagious virus.