Rutland County Council is urging people to seek support if they find themselves struggling because of the national coronavirus lockdown.

A new lockdown came into force across England on Tuesday 5 January, in response to the rising number of COVID-19 cases nationwide.

Under the new restrictions, people must stay at home, except for a small number of very specific reasons, such as essential shopping, work that can't be done at home, exercising once a day and to seek medical assistance.

Responding to the latest lockdown, Rutland County Council is reminding residents that support is available for anyone who is impacted by COVID-19 – especially if they are clinically extremely vulnerable to the virus.

Anyone who is clinically extremely vulnerable to COVID-19 is once again being advised to shield during lockdown.

The government is writing to everyone who is clinically extremely vulnerable to provide detailed advice.

Information about getting support if you're clinically extremely vulnerable to coronavirus can also be found online at: www.gov.uk/coronavirus-shielding-support.

People who are clinically extremely vulnerable can use this service to:

Get access to priority supermarket deliveries

Ask for someone to contact you about any local support that's available

Update your details - for example, your address

You can register yourself, or on behalf of someone else who is vulnerable.

Rutland County Council is ready to provide emergency assistance for any vulnerable residents who need it.

Anyone who is clinically extremely vulnerable and needs urgent assistance can contact the council's COVID-19 Crisis Helpline by calling: 01572 729 603.

Help and support is available for individuals and families in Rutland who are not clinically extremely vulnerable.

This includes:

Support through the Rutland Foodbank

Housing and homelessness support, including help for rough sleepers

Safeguarding and domestic abuse

Mental health support

Discuss options if you are struggling to pay Council Tax

Advice and funding for businesses

Coun Alan Walters, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Health, said: "Another national lockdown is the last thing anyone wanted. However, it's clear from the growing number of COVID-19 cases across the country that drastic action is needed to restore some level of control over the virus.

"I want to remind our residents that help is available to anyone who is struggling because of COVID-19 and the effects of lockdown. Please get in touch if you need support or know someone who requires assistance."

Further information about this support, including operating hours for Rutland County Council's Crisis Line, can be found at: www.rutland.gov.uk/coronavirus.