PULLING together – while staying apart – hundreds of residents across Haslemere have already rallied to support all those forced to self-isolate due to coronavirus.

In a heartening show of togetherness, offers of help have flooded in to ensure key supplies get to the most vulnerable residents of Haslemere and surrounding areas.

Vital help will include friendly phone calls to make sure those affected don’t suffer emotionally from extended periods of self-isolation.

The Haslemere Help ‘good neighbour’ scheme was launched this week with the backing of Haslemere Town Council and Haslewey Community Centre.

It will provide a network of trusted volunteers to make sure everyone in need in their neighbourhood is cared for.

Kind-hearted residents have also started their own schemes in and around the town to offer door-to-door support.

The Herald today is launching its own Helping Hand appeal, seeking to keep those self-isolating connected with the community, and to promote agencies offering support.

In the coming weeks and months, the Herald will be actively supporting community groups, both new and pre-existing, offering help to anyone self-isolating themselves during the COVID-19 outbreak.

Readers are invited to cut out the coupon (right), fill in their details and post it through their neighbours’ doors to offer a ‘helping hand’.

The latest advice is to stay at home if you have coronavirus symptoms – either a high temperature or a new, continuous cough.

Do not go to a GP surgery, pharmacy or hospital. You do not need to contact 111 to self-isolate.

Use the NHS 111 online coronavirus service – www.nhs.uk/con ditions/coronavirus-covid-19 – if you feel you cannot cope with your symptoms at home, your condition gets worse or your symptoms do not get better after seven days.

Only call 111 if you cannot get help online.

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