Dr Hilary joins the Britain Get Talking campaign to urge the nation to keep in touch with neighbours

Dr Hilary Jones is joining forces with the ITV Britain Get Talking campaign to encourage the nation to reach out to those in isolation, at a time when a phone call could make all the difference. He encourages people to check on their neighbours and offer essential support.

The campaign, which re-launched on Saturday night to 9.5 million viewers off the back of Ant and Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway, is urging members of the public to share messages of love and support as we adapt to the challenges faced by the Coronavirus crisis.

Dr Hilary, who has been widely praised for his daily medical updates and reassuring demeanour across ITV’s daytime shows Good Morning Britain and Lorraine, is now linking up with the mental wellness initiative to ensure that, even though we are currently apart, we never feel alone.

The Silver Line, a dedicated 24/7 helpline charity for older people, joins mental health charities Mind and YoungMinds in supporting the brand-new advert, which will debut on ITV on Friday 27th March.

Since its return to ITV the Britain Get Talking campaign has received support from famous faces including Ant and Dec, Davina McCall, Susanna Reid, Lorraine Kelly, Gordon Ramsay and soap stars Sally Dyvenor, Lisa Riley, Ali Mardell, Sam Aston, Ryan Prescott, Chris Bisson, Dolly Rose Campbell and Michelle Hardwick.

The campaign website, itv.com/BritainGetTalking also hosts advice on how to help safely, and information on sources of support for viewers who can’t rely on family and friends.

In the advert, Dr Hilary says:

“Right now we all need to stay at home and we all have to find new ways to connect, especially with people who are self isolating. If you’re well and not at risk, why not pop a note through your neighbour’s door offering essential support. Let your neighbours know that you’re there for them. A phone call could make all the difference. So Britain please, Get Talking.”

Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said:

"We can all do our bit to help others who may feel isolated through this challenging and anxious time. Simply picking up the phone and having a chat with a neighbour or relative can make all the difference to their day. It's these small acts of kindness that will help the nation through. I'm pleased to support ITV's Britain Get Talking campaign".

Clare Phillips, ITV Director of Social Purpose said:

“We’ve been so encouraged by the response to the Britain Get Talking campaign, with millions of people picking up the phone or sending video and text messages to loved ones to stay connected. But it’s even more important that we don’t forget those in isolation who are most vulnerable, which is why the campaign is now coming together with Dr Hilary to remind everyone that in times of crisis and uncertainty, being kind and lending a helping hand has never been so essential.”

Paul Goulden, Director of The Silver Line said:

“This is a worrying and uncertain time for all of us, but especially for older people. We’ve seen an increase in calls from older people who are in desperate need of reassurance and friendship, but we also know what an enormous difference a phone call can make, so please pick up the phone and speak to your older family, friends and neighbours. It might seem like a simple thing but whether you’re talking through any concerns, finding out if someone needs help with shopping or medication, or just being a friendly voice, you can make a huge difference.

“By working together we can support those most isolated during this crisis, and we hope ITV’s Britain Get Talking campaign with Dr Hilary’s support will remind people how valuable a phone call can be.”