REPAIRS to roads and council homes are being scaled back as the coronavirus takes its toll on local services.

East Renfrewshire Council has said only emergency repairs will be carried out on local authority houses for the foreseeable future.

Repairs that aren’t classed as urgent will be recorded and carried out when the situation improves, it added.

“This is necessary to ensure personal contact is minimised to reduce the risk of infection,” said a council statement. “During this critical period, we’ll maintain a service for those who are homeless or threatened with homelessness and provide information, advice and assistance to anyone who finds themselves in this situation.”

People can find out more about homeless services by calling 0141 577 3719 or 0800 052 0180 for inquiries made outside office hours.

Anyone who has received a letter from the Chief Medical Officer advising them to self-isolate in line with shielding guidance, which includes not leaving your home, can get support with food shopping and the collection of medicines by contacting the council on 0141 577 3093 or by emailing shielding@eastrenfrewshire.gov.uk.

The council’s roads team is also operating on a reduced basis, as quarries needed to carry out resurfacing works and pothole repairs have temporarily closed.

“There will be no further resurfacing works carried out for the time being and the roads team will move to emergency repairs only,” said the statement.

Some pest control services have also been suspended by the council, with all routine or non-emergency contract visits stopped.

Baits and traps currently in place will be left to “ensure a level of pest control protection.”

The council is also warning people to be aware of coronavirus scams, including anyone selling virus testing kits, vaccines or miracle cures, overpriced or fake goods to protect yourself, shopping or medication collection services and home cleaning services.

The Scottish Welfare Fund is still being provided during the coronavirus pandemic, with community care and crisis grants available. Details of how to apply can be found on the council’s website.

And anyone who wants to volunteer to support vulnerable residents in East Renfrewshire can get advice by calling a community helpline on 0141 876 9555.