VOLUNTEERS supporting vulnerable people in Silsden have started a 'Chatterbox' service to help tackle loneliness.

The Silsden Helpline has been operating for the past four weeks in Silsden, Steeton and Eastburn during the coronavirus outbreak.

As part of the latest service, a team of volunteers are making phone calls to people who have already been supported by the helpline during the first month.

The aim of Chatterbox is to check whether the people need further help, or simply need a chance to chat whenever they want someone to talk to.

Both services are being run by the Silsden Emergency Planning Group, which is made up of local residents.

A spokesman said: "We’re determined that no-one in our community should feel isolated and abandoned during these unprecedented times.

“The Silsden Chatterbox service is going to be vital as the 12-week minimum isolation period for older and vulnerable people continues.

"Our friendly team of chatters are ready to make calls and provide some help for those who need it most right now."

The spokesman said a steady number of people had been calling the Silsden Helpline each week.

But he added: "We know there are people out there who don’t know about the service our team of volunteers are offering.

"So I’d urge everyone to make sure their neighbours and relatives know that we are here to help."

The Silsden Helpline has taken more than 200 calls in its first four weeks of operation, helping local people with everything from collecting prescriptions and pensions and doing their shopping to more complex requests.

The helpline is available 9am-6pm Monday to Friday and 10am-4pm at weekends on 01535 400150.

People wanting to join the free Chatterbox service can phone the helpline number and someone will get back in touch with them, they can email requests at help@silsden.info.

Chatterbox is open to people in Silsden, Steeton and Eastburn.

Visit silsden.info for more information about the Silsden Helpline and Silsden Chatterbox.