More than 7,500 vulnerable people in Bath and North East Somerset who are shielding during the second phase of lockdown are being contacted to make sure they are aware of the support available to them.

Bath & North East Somerset Council has this week contacted all residents who have been identified as clinically extremely vulnerable to outline the help available from the B&NES Community Wellbeing Hub and encourage them to register on the Government's new online registration service.

Guidance is available on the Government website about the extra precautionary measures in place for those people to keep themselves safe, including staying at home as much as possible except to go outdoors for exercise or to attend essential health appointments.

By registering for the online service, residents will be able to request access to a priority supermarket delivery slot if they don't already have one, notify the council that they need support and make sure their contact details are up to date.

Residents who are shielding, or a family member or carer on their behalf, can register by following this link https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus-shielding-support

Where residents have requested additional support, the council will work with its support centre, the Community Wellbeing Hub to get in touch and offer appropriate services from the Hub. These could include mental health support; returning home from hospital; income, housing and benefits advice; food and medication collections and lifestyle services such as stopping smoking or losing weight.

The Hub is a collaboration between Bath & North East Somerset Council; Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire CCG; Virgin Care; 3SG and other partner organisations.

Anyone who hasn't been told to shield but thinks they should have been notified should contact their GP.

Councillor Rob Appleyard, cabinet member for Adult Services, Safeguarding and Public Health, said: "This second lockdown is once again an extremely distressing and difficult time for vulnerable people and their families. Alongside our partners, we are committed to supporting residents through the pandemic and making sure they have the things they need via the Community Wellbeing Hub. If you haven't done so already, register with the Government's online service. We'll then get in touch with you personally to ensure you get local help."

Jo Scammell from Virgin Care BANES said: "It's especially important that those shielding look after their health and wellbeing by getting outdoor exercise where possible and attending essential health appointments, but other than for those reasons, please stay at home to stay safe."

Anyone who needs support or help with registering with the Government's online service can telephone the Hub on 0300 247 0050, email [email protected] or text 07870 868368. The Hub is open Monday to Friday, 9am until 5pm.