One of Swindon Support’s volunteers is Graham Stobbs, the founder of the M4 festival.

Graham has been delivering shopping and medicines and other necessities to people who have needed to isolate themselves or their families, or who can’t otherwise get out. The Army veteran said one reason for volunteering was to protect his own wellbeing.

He said: “I have suffered from mental health difficulties in the past, and I knew if I was cooped in inside four walls all day every day I’d be struggling.

“I think that gives me an insight how this might be affecting those people who can’t get out – if they are in especially vulnerable groups, and have to be isolated.”

Working with a partner from the group, Graham is delivering food and other necessities.

He said: “We leave the bags and parcels on the doorstep, ring and then step back. We always have a brief chat with the people, and they’re happy to see us.

“Being shut up indoors isn’t natural for us as humans. Even people who haven’t had mental health issues can be struggling – we all want to see people, we want to speak to people, we have social natures.

“Volunteering for something like Swindon Support is fine, but the one thing I’d say to people is pick up the phone and call someone you haven’t spoken to recently. If there’s a friend you haven’t spoken to in a while, or a family member, then just pick up the phone.

“A quick chat, or just a message can make the difference to someone who’s feeling isolated or frightened or alone.”

He added: “Coronavirus is doing terrible things, but I love seeing people coming together and just helping their friends and neighbours or strangers. That is great."