A NEW service has been launched to ensure no one in South Ayrshire faces coronavirus alone.

Set up by Voluntary Action South Ayrshire (VASA) South Ayrshire Lifeline is a support system that will provide a vital link to the outside world for vulnerable and elderly people cut off due to the spread of COVID-19.

Volunteers have taken swift action, after their South Ayrshire Life Ayr shop was closed in line with Government guidance.

Now they have set up shop in a brand-new call centre, where staff phone lines will be manned seven days a week from 9am to 8pm by staff from the store on Newmarket Street.

The call service official launched yesterday (Monday, March 23) as the dedicated team prepared to provide support.

The call centre will deal with residents who have been forced to self-isolate to prevent the spread of the virus.

Staff will also be able to provide practical help such as food deliveries as well as provide information and a listening ear during challenging times.

Concerned callers will also be provided with information on help being offered by local charities, churches, community groups and businesses in their area.

A whole range of practical services are also available by calling South Ayrshire Lifeline including food pack deliveries, prescription pick-ups and even hearing aid batteries by post.

A Telephone Befriending service will provide emotional support every evening, with this running between the hours of 5pm and 8pm.

Marie Oliver, VASA’s Chief Executive Officer, said: “People all over South Ayrshire are having to self-isolate but we want them to know they are not alone.

“We are committed to doing all we can to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the most vulnerable in our communities – never more so than at this difficult time, and we are working closely with our partners in the Third Sector and the South Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership to offer all the support and the help we can.

“So don’t face this on your own, call South Ayrshire Lifeline on 0800 432 0510.”