TEN TIPS ON HOW TO HELP

1 TECHNOLOGY

Help people to set up an online grocery delivery account. Also set up their phones and computers with Skype and video calling technologies. Consider donating a spare iPhone, laptop or computer to someone without one. Create a Netflix or BBC iPlayer account for people.

2 KEEPING IN TOUCH

Loneliness will be a big problem. Schedule regular phone calls with friends and neighbours. Families could spend time together in a different way – for example, by setting up a group chat or playing online games together. Write postcards, letters and send emails as a substitute for face-to-face contact.

3 JOIN A VOLUNTEER GROUP

Hundreds of mutual aid groups have sprung up nationwide. Find your local one by going to www.covidmutualaid.org. Each group has a Facebook page and WhatsApp group for volunteers.

4 LEAFLETS

Print leaflets with your name and phone number asking if you can do anything to help, like fetching shopping. Post them through local doors.

5 FOOD

Every time you go to the shops, ask your neighbours if you can fetch them anything. Consider cooking meals for the vulnerable to keep in their freezer. Do NOT stockpile or panic buy.

6 MEDICATION

Ask elderly neighbours if you can collect prescriptions for them. The online pharmacy www.echo.co.uk works with NHS GPs to deliver pills to people’s door for free. Anyone can sign up and get their prescriptions delivered.

7 CARERS

If you are a carer, plan alternative face-to-face care if you have to self-isolate.

8 CHILDCARE

Many will need extra help because grandparents will be advised not to look after children. Also consider asking NHS staff – who will be working long hours – if they need help with childcare, especially if schools close.

9 NEIGHBOURS

Download the Nextdoor app, which allows you to connect with people in your postcode. It covers 90 per cent of households in the country.

10 PETS

People self-isolating will need help walking their dogs. Use www.borrowmydoggy.com, which matches dog owners with volunteers.