Two southern parishes have decided to continue a successful community Connect project.

More than 100 volunteers have joined the monitoring scheme set up last month in Arbory and Rushen.

Householders were asked to put up an orange card in their window if they needed help during the Covid crisis, or a green card if they were doing fine.

Parish clerk Phil Gawne said: ’For some the easing of restrictions is allowing them to get back to a more normal life, but for many people restrictions remain a necessary intrusion.

’For that reason, the Commissioners have agreed to maintain the community monitoring system which had operated very successfully throughout April.

’Some of our neighbours will still be isolating or isolated. Many people are enjoying having more time on their hands than before and through their help our parishes have changed for the better.’

An orange card should be placed somewhere easily visible to the volunteers. Help can be in the form of doing your shopping or simply have a friendly chat.

One of the Commissioners has a special card which can be used to allow him to collect your pension if that would be of assistance.

The two parishes are asking for suggestions on what further support they could provide.

Across the island, communities have been coming together with ideas to support and protect residents.

These include a food box scheme run from a central hub and a street champion where one person helps a few neighbours.

The two parishes are thinking of setting up a community fund to help develop initiatives. They have also organised a community art project.