AYRSHIRE care workers have urged residents to keep a look out for their elderly neighbours for the remainder of the winter months.

CERA care, who provide professional care at home to older and less able people across Scotland, want communities to consider the most vulnerable residents as we head into the depths of winter.

With temperatures plummeting below freezing and coronavirus Level 4 restrictions firmly in place, the carers who operate across North, South and East Ayrshire have issued a call for support.

Over Christmas, they encouraged residents to deliver a card and spread some cheer, with some members of the community making special Christmas cards.

But the carers want to ensure their vulnerable friend or neighbour keeps moving and keeps warm over the period.

Suzanne Fleming, local manager for Ayrshire said: “If you have a vulnerable friend or neighbour, can you help ensure they are keeping warm, having regular meals and hot drinks, and moving about to keep fit and healthy, body and mind, bearing in mind all the social distancing restrictions.

“Some members of our community have been making special Christmas cards this year to bring bit of cheer – to those we know who may be self-isolating or limited in social activities with all that the pandemic guidelines have thrown at us. Ringing a door bell, standing back to the 2m distance and just have a wee chat from the garden gate, can make a huge difference.”

Lynn Skedd, deputy manager in Ayrshire added: “Our team of care workers work diligently all year round ensuring safe and happy lives for older and less able people living independently in their own homes.

“I would like to thank each and every one of them for going the extra mile this year to support the vulnerable and elderly people we look after on a daily basis.”