At a time when the Government has advised against social situations, many people have become concerned about vulnerable and isolated members of the community.
Boris Johnson has recommended that the public avoid visits to pubs, restaurants and theatre trips, leaving many people at risk of loneliness.
In response, communities across the country have been offering their help to support those most at risk.
This is how the community in North Tyneside is working together to help each other during the coronavirus outbreak – and how people can support their community.
Dreamshine Community Interest Company, Wallsend
Dreamshine Community Interest Company in Wallsend is working to assist vulnerable and elderly people to ensure they have someone to talk to as many face isolation.
The team is looking for volunteers who can spare their time to hold telephone conversations with elderly and vulnerable people in the area.
Company director, Ingrid Hall, is in the process of setting up a contact number that will divert to a volunteer’s phone.
She emphasises that volunteers can be assured that their privacy will be respected and the safety of everyone involved is a priority.
Dreamshine also hope to put together care packages to deliver to elderly people in Wallsend. They currently need donations of toilet roll, toiletries, tinned food and treats for the packages.
Anyone interested in contributing to care packages can deliver items to Baltic Mortgage Solutions on Station Road, Wallsend, NE28 8QT.
For more information, Dreamshine Community Interest can be contacted on dreamshineresponse@gmail.com or via their Facebook page.
Newcastle Cat and Dog Shelter, Benton
Following the cancellation of public gatherings, Newcastle Cat and Dog Shelter is now unable to hold their regular fundraising events.
The events are vital in raising valuable funds from the public to maintain the running of the shelter, which is estimated to cost £1.25 million each year.
As a result, the charity has set up a Just Giving page and generous members of the community have already raised over two thousand pound.
The charity has also launched a text donation service, where people can donate £1 to contribute to the running of the shelter.
People can donate by texting 'APPEALNOINFO' to 70450, or visit their Facebook page for more information.
Crown Taxis, Killingworth
Crown Taxis based in Killingworth is offering to collect food and prescriptions for elderly and regular customers who feel afraid to leave the house due to coronavirus.
The company has 35 drivers and serves the surrounding areas, including Dudley, Blyth and Cramlington.
Manager, Peter Phillips, who has had the company for 11 years, explains that since posting the idea on Facebook, he has received a number of calls from people to praise their efforts.
The company is advising customers who may need their help to call the taxi office on: 0191 250 2345.
A mutual aid Facebook group has been set up in North Tyneside for anyone who would like to offer help in their local community.
North Tyneside Covid 19 Mutual Aid allows people who would like to volunteer to fill out a form detailing ways in which they can help.
