AFTERNOON tea has been delivered to elderly residents in North Glasgow as part of a scheme to boost the spirits of those shielding during the coronavirus pandemic.

Volunteers from community organisations in the area have worked with housing association ng homes, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and Police Scotland on the initiative.

Safety messages from the emergency services were included in the food packages handed out to tenants.

Richard Porter MBE, an ng homes board member, said: "It’s been a very challenging time for people who have been shielding now for over 10 weeks.

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"The calls our staff are making to people are showing that they are missing human contact and this, in turn, increases a sense of loneliness and anxiety."

On the first day of the initiative, 125 afternoon teas were delivered, alongside volunteers from Possobilities, to residents in three retirement complexes and to people in the wider community.

The plan is to reach over 600 people over the next few weeks.

A letter in each pack stated: "We realise that this is an anxious time for you and hope that this Afternoon Tea brings some cheer to your day."

Possobilities put together a traditional afternoon tea with rolls provided by McGhees bakers, cakes and scones with clotted cream and jam.

The housing association will also be working with Partick Thistle Charitable Trust and Progrez to deliver the teas.

Karla Stevenson, a fire officer, said: "This pandemic has been challenging in so many ways and unfortunately there has also been an increase in accidental house fires this year but initiatives like this will help us reach those who need us.

"We can provide free home fire safety advice and provide smoke alarms."

The housing association has been working with the community and local businesses to deliver food parcels during the pandemic, using funding from the Scottish Government and National Lottery.

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Anne McLaughlin, Glasgow North MP, helped deliver to local residents.

She said: "Locally, we are very organised in terms of food provision and moving our attention to emotional wellbeing.

"This lovely gesture combines the two – a wee treat that says – we haven’t forgotten you.

"Many people have barely been out of their four walls since March and we are aware of the huge psychological pressure this is putting on people."

Bob Doris MSP raised a parliamentary to thank those involved in the initiative.

Anyone who knows someone who is over 50, smokes and lives alone or has mobility issues or uses medical oxygen can put them in touch with the fire service by calling 0800 731333or texting ‘fire’ to 80800.