Age UK Oxfordshire launches new help-line number for older people during the coronavirus outbreak

Age UK Oxfordshire and Action for Carers has increased the support they provide to older people and carers by telephone and limiting home visits to essential visits only.

They will be pausing their events, activities and groups for the time being as a precautionary measure.

A spokesperson from Age UK Oxfordshire said in a statement: "We are pleased to be offering a new, free, telephone support service.

"This will include a friendly, regular weekly call to see how people are, to chat and also problem-solve if people are facing practical problems.

If you think you would benefit from this service, please phone 01865 411 288 which will connect straight to an answerphone where you can leave your name and contact number.

"A member of our team will then ring you back as soon as they are able during normal working hours.

"Please note this is not an emergency service - please ring 111 for medical advice or 999 in a medical emergency.

"There are simple, effective things we can all do to reduce our risk of catching coronavirus or transmitting the virus to other people."