A new community helpline has been set up by Epping Forest District Council to help answer coronavirus related concerns.

As of Tuesday, March 17, 21 people in Essex have tested positive for coronavirus out of a population of 1,477,764.

A total of 1,950 cases have been confirmed in the UK and 71 people have died, however the actual number of people with virus is estimated to between 35,000 and 50,000.

Leader of Epping Forest District Council, Councillor Chris Whitbread said: “In light of the Government’s recent advice regarding the coronavirus (COVID-19), we’ve set up a team dedicated to answering questions or signposting customers to where more information is available.”

A frequently asked questions (FAQs) page has also been added to the district council’s website to help ease incoming calls from residents.

If your question does not appear on the FAQ page, please call the helpline on 01992 564088 to talk to the team.

Councillor Whitbread added: “This is not a health service and it’s still important to call the NHS on 111 if you have any concerns about symptoms.

“However, if it’s about the council or our community, this new service will try to help our residents and local businesses deal with the effects of the coronavirus.

“We will keep our website up to date as the situation evolves and advice from the Government changes.

“We understand everyone has their concerns over health, finance and family and we will help where possible.”

For further advice visit click here to visit Epping Forest District Council's helpline, or alternatively, Public Health England.