VOLUNTEER groups across Test Valley are offering "befriending services" to help people self-isolating during the coronavirus pandemic.

While there are dozens of groups providing a range of support to hundreds of people across the borough - from picking up food and prescriptions, to running errands - an increasing number of individuals struggling with the isolation of lockdown means groups are increasing their focus on making sure that residents don’t feel alone.

With the growing demand for befriending services, those who sign up for national NHS volunteer schemes are being encouraged to contact their local support groups, and this can be done by visiting the Test Valley Community Helpline, who will help residents make contact with the right people.

Leader of Test Valley Borough Council, Councillor Phil North, said: “Coronavirus poses a very serious health risk but the impact of isolation brings with it its own wellbeing challenges.

“The amazing volunteer support groups operating all across the borough continue to do a fantastic job dropping off food and prescriptions and helping with a variety of other errands, and this will of course continue going forward. But they are also looking at offering help in the form of someone to talk to. They often spend time chatting to people when taking them supplies but they want to get the message out there to others who don’t necessarily need help with practical tasks but who would benefit from hearing a friendly voice at the end of the phone.

Residents can access the helpline on 0330 400 4116 or by email at UnityC-19@unityonline.org.uk, while an interactive map of all of the support groups in Test Valley can be found at: www.unityonline.org.uk/coronavirus-support-groups.