A COUNCIL said it could reduce its care calls to "essential care and support only" in a bid to prevent the spread of coronavirus among vulnerable residents.

Denbighshire County Council urged residents to “keep an eye on each other” over the coming weeks and months as the coronavirus outbreak impacts on communities

The council has put plans in place to provide essential care and support alongside the need to limit the outbreak, including restrictions on visits to residential homes to family, friends and health professionals.

It said it has reviewed its care calls to minimise contact, which could mean that staff will visit less often with face-to-face care and support calls replaced by “telephone wellbeing checks”.

The council said it has also suspended its face-to-face homeless prevention service at the Ask Centre in Rhyl so that officers can provide the service during the Delay Phase of the outbreak.

Cllr Bobby Feeley, cabinet member for health and well-being, urged residents to check on vulnerable residents, including their shopping needs and social contact which can improve well-being and general health.

“We are still in the winter months and our keep well this winter campaign is still active,” said Cllr Feeley. “However, with daily headlines about coronavirus and so much uncertainty, people may feel more isolated than usual and may be more dependant on goodwill and friendship during this difficult time.

“I would ask people to be neighbourly and check on their neighbours. A call to check on people’s welfare, checking their shopping needs and general friendship can have a significant positive impact on individuals’ well-being and general health.”

The council added that residents should be vigilant for any over-the-phone and online scams taking advantage of the coronavirus crisis, while making sure that their properties are secure.

Anyone in need of support from the Denbighshire homeless prevention service should call 01824 712936 from 8.30am-5pm, Monday to Thursday and 8.30am-4.30pm on Fridays.

If you have general concerns about any vulnerable people in Denbighshire, contact the Single Point of Access on 0300 456 1000.

For further advice on health related issues, please visit the Public Health Wales website at www.phw.nhs.wales