The Vale of Glamorgan Council has created a new directory providing information about community groups and businesses in Barry and the wider area that are offering support to those in need during the Coronavirus crisis.

The main group in Barry is the Barry COVID-19 Mutual Aid group. The hope is the council list will bring all of these initiatives together and under one roof.

These are now listed in the Vale Council's list.

Vale Heroes is a searchable database which is available here.

Many people need support during this period and the Council is grateful to Glamorgan Voluntary Services who have compiled an initial list of those willing to help.

We are now calling on residents keen to help those in need to register their details on the new directory.

Vulnerable people are particularly affected by the current situation. Those self-isolating may need someone to carry out their weekly shop, while others would benefit from a phone call as loneliness takes its toll.

Vale Heroes is a list of groups ready to offer such support that is easily searchable so anyone after help can easily find what they're looking for.

Businesses are also encouraged to sign up if they feel they can offer assistance as are the many residents' groups already doing great work to help members of their community.

To express an interest, please email [email protected] explaining briefly the type of help you are able to provide.

Cllr Lis Burnett, Vale of Glamorgan Council Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Education, said: "I know at this difficult time communities around the Vale are pulling together to help individuals most in need and I have been truly humbled by such gestures. The human acts of kindness taking place throughout the County are a ray of light during this terrible crisis.

"Now we are looking to help coordinate these efforts so anyone in search of help can find what they need. I would like to thank Glamorgan Voluntary Services for their support in getting Vale Heroes up and running so quickly with us.

"Please, if you are able to help someone in any way, register your details by emailing [email protected] and we will put those in need in touch with you.

"It is important we band together to look after our most vulnerable during this challenging period and putting your name forward really will make a huge difference."