A TEST Valley-based charity has set up a community helpline to aid those affected by the Coronavirus pandemic.

Unity, a volunteer support charity, has created at hotline to help residents who are self isolating or vulnerable to the virus.

The service allows volunteers to help residents with running errands, picking up prescriptions and shopping.

A dedicated Facebook page has also been set up by the charity, based in Romsey, called Covid19CommunitySupport2020.

The service is available to those affected in the Test Valley, from Romsey to Andover and further afield.

Terry Bishop, Chief Executive from Unity, a Council for Voluntary Service based in Test Valley said: “These are unprecedented times and in particular for those who are at risk or elderly.

"Unity is working to provide a co-ordinated approach across the community engaging with groups who may already be providing help to their service users as well as mobilising volunteers to run errands and offer support.

"We are asking groups to let us know what they are already doing which in turn is helping us to map areas where there is little support available.

"By doing this we can target those people who have no assistance and offer them the support they may need."

Romsey Town Centre Manager, Mark Edgerley, is supporting Unity.

He said: "We are really pleased that Unity has been able to put this Community Phone Helpline in place so quickly it’s vitally important that we support people isolated at home.

"We would ask residents to check on neighbours and tell them about the helpline."

Terry Bishop added: "If you are self-isolating and need help please contact Unity by calling 0330 400 4116 or if you are a group already helping people, please let us know by emailing UnityC-19@unityonline.org.uk."

For more information, visit Unity's website or Facebook page.