STIRLING'S most vulnerable people can call a support line launched by the council in the wake of the coronavirus crisis.

Local residents in need of care, essential supplies or support can call 01786 404 040 to have their requirements formally recorded by Stirling Council's community response teams.

The support line is staffed seven days a week between 8am and 8pm and the information will passed to officers deployed in each council ward to ensure help and assistance is provided to those who need it the most.

Council leader Councillor Scott Farmer said: “There are people across our communities who are perhaps elderly, vulnerable or isolated through disability or location.

“This helpline is for them.

“The people we are trying to reach might not have access to news on digital sources, or be comfortable using a mobile phone, so we are asking our communities to do their part in sharing this message.

“If you are reading this, pass the information on to anyone you know who needs it and tell them to call 01786 404 040.

“Help us make a difference for our most vulnerable residents.”

The community support line is the local authority's response to the national approach to “shielding” - the measures that should be taken by people, including children, who are at high risk of severe illness from Covid-19 because of an underlying health condition.

Those affected will also be contacted through a separate letter from the NHS.

Cllr Danny Gibson, deputy council leader, added: “This is a massive operation which is shifting into gear to identify and support those in our communities who need help most.

“We need people right across the Stirling Council area to spread the message that help is out there and we are doing everything we can to look after our most vulnerable.”

People can also contact communitysupport@stirling.gov.uk to request support.