ESSEX Police has joined forces with agencies across the county to ensure vulnerable or isolated people are safe this Christmas.

The festive period is one of the few times when the country virtually shuts down, meaning many people could be left without the help they normally rely on.

The county’s police force has been working together with Age Concern, the East of England Ambulance Service, NHS Direct and local communities to help identify vulnerable people in a bid to make sure they are safe.

Essex Police neighbourhood policing coordinator Sgt Vic Faccini said: “We are very pleased to be working with Age Concern this Christmas.

“Getting involved in the community, improving links with residents and contributing to people staying safe reflects what neighbourhood policing is all about.”

Tony Southam, of Age Concern, added: “This is a good example of collaborative working. We all have the same aim to minimise the risk to vulnerable people over the Christmas period.”

A spokesman for the East of England Ambulance Service said: “We are happy to be working with other organisations in the community to make sure older people have a safe and happy Christmas this year.”