A big helping hand is available for Hartlepool's lonely and isolated - here's everything you need to know

Up to 70 people are already turning to the Minds For Men/Wellness For Women project to help them during the lockdown.

And the people who are doing a marvellous job in running the service – co-ordinator Dawn Smith and chairman Martin Connelly – called on even more people to come forward and join in.

Just look at the list of activities the project already runs.

* It has a gardening project where members go out and about and spruce up gardens – from public spaces to care homes and private gardens.

* It runs day trips to places such as Hadrian’s Wall and Aysgarth Falls.

* It holds weekly group sessions for women in Tuesdays from 6pm to 8pm.

* It holds weekly group sessions for men on Thursdays from 6pm to 9pm.

* Minds For Men/ Wellness For Women is ready to branch out with support for veterans, the elderly and the 16-21 age group.

* A photography group will be starting on Wednesday.

* A metal detecting group has been launched after Minds For Men/ Wellness For Women teamed up with East Durham Detectors.

* A reiki and crystal healing group, which has been launched for women, is being extended to men.