Vulnerable people living in isolation in the north-east are to be given a lifeline service amid unprecedented demand for help.
Charity Food Train is expanding its grocery shopping service to Aberdeenshire, having ensured thousands of older people elsewhere in Scotland continue to receive critical during lockdown.
The charity has reported “unprecedented national demand” in recent weeks from over-65s who are unable to manage independently, many of them disabled or suffering from ill health.
Now Food Train will match volunteers with people who need help getting their weekly groceries, and is encouraging those in need to register for the home shopping service.
Development officer Morna O’May said: “The demand from older people needing help with their shopping has never been greater because of the restrictions currently in place.
“The pandemic has highlighted what, for many, is a routine challenge in their lives to make sure they have the essentials for living in their cupboards.
“We already have volunteers signed up, and we want anyone who thinks they or someone they know would benefit from this new service to get in-touch – we’re here to help.”
Food Train has experienced a 60% increase in people using its shopping service since the start of the coronavirus crisis.
To find out more e-mail shopping@thefoodtrain.co.uk or call 0800 3047924 or to register as a volunteer, visit www.thefoodtrain.co.uk.