People with a range of health conditions to be asked to stay at home for 12 weeks in face of coronavirus crisis
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The latest UK government coronavirus update has outlined plans to ask vulnerable groups to self-isolate for three months.
Communities secretar Robert Jenrick said those being asked to self-isolate includes those with severe respiratory conditions, those with specific types of cancer and those who have received organ transplants.
The full range of conditions will be available online, he said. at www.gov.uk/coronavirus
"I don't underestimate what we are asking people to to do," he said. "It will be tough."
Adding, however, that it was necessary to protect people who are vulnerable, he said that it was important to note that people living with those identified as vulnerable would not be required to stay at home.
They could still get out to collect food and medicines as required on behalf of those regarded as vulnerable.
Where people do not have family or other support nearby a network of local hubs is to be created that will allow for food and medicines to be delivered to people's homes as required, with pharmacies, supermarkets and local government working together to provide that support.
The UK government announcement followed by First Minister Nicola Sturgeon's daily press conference.
She said that, in Scotland, around 200,000 people will fall into the "vulnerable" group.
The NHS will be contacting all individuals concerned – by letter first, to be followed by a phone call or text – to let them know what they are being asked to do and outlining the support available.
