Newtown residents who are finding the current lockdown difficult and need extra help are being urged to call a helpline run by local volunteers.

The Newtown Network is asking people to phone 0333 996 1124 if they need support with essential needs such as finances, shopping and prescription collections.

Callers will be put through to volunteer agencies who are able to offer a variety of help from the Town Council, PAVO Community Connectors, Ponthafren Association, Citizens Advice Powys, Powys County Council Children's Services, the Salvation Army and All Saints Church.

Newtown Mayor Councillor David Selby said: “With the weather bad, schools closed and the lockdown restrictions in force many more people will be staying at home.

“Do not feel alone - there is help and assistance and someone to talk to if you feel alone or need some extra help."

County Times:

The Network also supports volunteer 'Neighbourhood Angels' in 13 different areas in the town who co-ordinating local volunteers to help with errands such as shopping and prescription collections.

Before Christmas, a Newtown Network Service Directory was delivered to every household with contact details of organisations who can help during the lockdown. It can also be viewed and downloaded from the Newtown Network website.

Anyone who has recently been made redundant and needs help with finances or life skills can call the Redundancy Help Line on 0333 996 1124.