THE FOODBANK is changing how its clients access its services in order to keep up with government guidance on coronavirus.

Taunton Foodbank is moving towards food deliveries from the end of March, and distribution points will be closed on or before March 27.

The change is being made to ensure its volunteers are kept safe and to ensure correct protocols are followed.

The temporary measure will be in place until they are able to return to normal service.

Sue Weightman, manager of the foodbank, has been working with Somerset West and Taunton Council to come to an agreement regarding deliveries.

The council has allowed one of their vans to be used to deliver in Taunton on Tuesday and Friday afternoon, and in Wellington and Wiveliscombe on Thursday afternoon.

Separate arrangements are being made for Langport, as it falls into a different local authority.

These arrangements will be kept under review and alterations made when and where required.

The referral process will remain the same - clients need to ring one of our referral agents such as CAB, Job Centre, SWAT housing or benefits, social worker, health visitor, PFSW etc who will then email a request through to the foodbank.

Ms Weightman said: "During these unprecedented times, we are working very hard to keep our vital service going as well as our volunteers and clients safe.

"To that end, I welcome the trustees' decision to close the distribution centre in Taunton and our hubs for the foreseeable future and to provide a delivery service.

"We could not do this without the help and support of our colleagues in Somerset West and Taunton Council who will also be helping us with our supermarket collections on a weekly basis.

"Please keep safe everyone and keep up with us on our facebook page and website."