People shielding will get visits from Greater Manchester’s Fire and Rescue Service.

Those with underlying health conditions that have been instructed to live with no contact from others since March are getting visits to make sure they have the support they need, after almost three months alone.

Since lockdown started, council staff have contacted more than 6,600 residents on the shielded list to check on their welfare and to see what assistance they might need.

Another 600 people have been referred to the council via the six community hubs across the borough, which were set up to provide a rapid response to the coronavirus crisis.

But 400 people on the shielded list have not responded so staff from Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service have volunteered to visit them in person.

Since June 22, they have been checking if anyone needs help and handing out leaflets with contact details for the borough’s community hubs and other sources of help.

While out and about on the visits, fire staff are wearing uniforms and carrying ID badges to reassure residents that they are from the service.

Cllr Graham Whitham, Trafford council’s executive member for communities, said: “The virus has been horrific but it is heartwarming to see how our communities have come together to look after each other.

“We want to ensure that people in Trafford will receive support when they need it most and our staff have been tremendous in contacting as many residents as possible and checking they are OK.

“Sadly, we haven’t been able to reach everyone so I am delighted that our colleagues in the Fire and Rescue Service have been able to step in and be a reassuring presence.”

GMFRS station manager Jim Bridge said: “We have turned this project around extremely quickly to ensure the welfare of Trafford residents with our council colleagues.

“This shows the true value of local collaboration and inter-agency working. This can only build on our already excellent relationships with our partners in Trafford.”

Fire group manager Paul Duggan said: “I’m pleased we could work together with Trafford Council to provide this essential provision to keep our communities safe.

"I’m proud that our staff are working to check on those who don’t have regular contact or support from friends or family at this very difficult time.

“GMFRS will continue with to work with local authorities and other partners across Greater Manchester to respond to the coronavirus situation.”