GWYNEDD Council has asked residents to look out for their neighbours and family during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

With cases increasing nationwide due to the Omicron variant, the council has asked the public to keep an eye on elderly and vulnerable friends, neighbours and relatives, who may be ill themselves or their usual visitors are self-isolating.

Deputy leader of Gwynedd Council and cabinet member for adults, health and wellbeing, Councillor Dafydd Meurig, said: “The community efforts we have seen here in Gwynedd and indeed across the country throughout the pandemic has been something we have all been proud to see.

“With case numbers remaining high throughout Wales, if you have neighbours, friends or relatives who are unwell or are left isolated, we encourage you to contact them safely and see if they need help with shopping or other support.

“You may be the only person contacting them so they will appreciate your kindness and consideration.

“The impact of self-isolation on those living alone or on vulnerable people can be very difficult.

“We want to make sure people do not feel vulnerable or isolated and encourage them to accept help from family, friends or those who are known to them.

“However, it is vital to ensure that if someone is self-isolating due to COVID-19, not to come into close contact with them.

“So, deliveries of food or medicines should be left on the doorstep and contacting friends or relatives by phone or online is a good way to check on them without risking the virus spreading further.”

People are urged to help support the vaccination effort and can book online or attend designated drop in clinics to get their first, second or booster jabs.

The online booking service can be found at: www.bcuhb.nhs.wales/covid-19/covid-19-vaccinations/covid-19-booster-programme-online-booking.