A new helpline and food parcel service to help older people through the coronavirus crisis is proving to be very popular.

The two services were launched by Age UK West Cumbria on March 31 and the charity said it has been inundated with calls. But they need to raise emergency funds to keep the service going.

A spokesman for the charity said:

“Since we began operating, we have delivered 120 food parcels to some of the most vulnerable people in our community – this has been a lifeline for many.”

Each food parcel costs £10 and contains essential items including; milk, bread, potatoes, fruit and biscuits, in addition to a colouring book from JEHANE Ltd, a collection of artists.

Orders are placed and paid for over the phone, by calling 01900 844670 and delivered to people’s doorsteps the next day.

The helpline, which was set up to offer information, advice and support to anyone aged 55 and over, has received calls all week from people on a variety of issues.

These include being confused about what coronavirus means for them; feeling lonely and isolated; worried about their ability to cope; concerns about health and wellbeing; financial concerns and worries about accessing essential food supplies.

The charity said: “staff have been working hard to provide callers with information, advice and most of all – reassurance.”

When appropriate they can refer people to their internal information and advice, befriending, and food parcel delivery services, or to external services that can help support them.

The team has also been carrying out checks on their existing clients to make sure they have access to support, and a friendly voice in case they feel alone.

With their main funding streams cut off, due to coronavirus guidelines, the charity has set up an emergency appeal to try and raise £100,000 to be able to continue the work via a just giving page.