Over 400 volunteer groups offering support to neighbours affected by coronavirus measures have been set up, using social media to co-ordinate activity.
A central body named Covid-19 Mutual Aid UK will focus on providing resources and connecting people to their nearest local groups, willing volunteers and those in need.
The group is run entirely by volunteers and not medical professionals. There are now more than 400 local groups across the country.
COMMUNITY CARE IN THE FACE OF #COVIDー19
— Covid-19 Mutual Aid UK (@CovidAidUK) March 14, 2020
1/3 We're continuing to develop resources for local groups to be able to deliver mutual aid and community care in a safe way. For the meantime https://t.co/forjg2UTkn is the best place for up to date info.
Covid-19 Mutual Aid UK states that its aims are to prevent the spread of Covid-19 and provide support for the most vulnerable.
Those who are self-isolating can get involved via online or phone-based organising.
The group labels itself as a work in progress and is developing resources over the coming days to support new groups.
A spokesperson said: "This is a global crisis, with terrible, tragic consequences for so many people that are still unfolding. No matter what we look like, where we live, or how much money we have, sickness shows us that all of us are human and our bodies are fragile.
"And in every country, it is the old, the sick and those suffering from the vast social inequalities in our society who will be affected worse. But this global crisis required a local response. That is where we come in.
"People in our network, who are self-organising on Facebook and WhatsApp, have been out on the streets handing out leaflets which detail the kind of help we can give those who need it. We are offering to bring people in self-isolation the basic things they need - from prescriptions to the weekly food shop.
"And we are also offering a chat on the phone to the many, many people who are feeling more isolated than ever. With thousands of people already self-isolating, and the over 70s being told to stay indoors within weeks, it’s crucial we make these connections now."
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