NURSERY workers and teachers are among Glasgow staff being asked to help out in care homes over the festive period.

It comes as a combination of annual leave, sickness and the newly reinstated coronavirus isolation policy leaves Glasgow City Council homes without the necessary workers.

Those who take up the offer will be paid for their shifts and it is only open to council staff with caring experience.

READ MORE: Glasgow's Langside had most complaints sent to council officers

A source told the Glasgow Times council chiefs had made the urgent plea earlier this month due to "higher than usual staff absences" and have pleaded with staff to lend a hand if they can.

Those who take on the role will not be tasked with medical care, such as administering medication, but will instead help facilitate visitation between patients and their loved ones as well as keeping residents company throughout the holidays.

It comes ahead of the first Christmas visits which will be allowed to take place in local authority sites in two years.

Last year's level four restrictions meant patients were forced to celebrate virtually with family and friends who had to keep their distance from the facilities.

This year, staff at the council are hoping for a merrier Christmas and happier new year for all involved but are urging those who can offer their services to do so.

A spokeswoman for Glasgow’s Health & Social Care Partnership said: “Due to higher than usual staff absences because people are having to self-isolate, are ill or are taking much needed time off over Christmas, we have asked for assistance from colleagues within other areas of health and social care and the council to work alongside our experienced team in our five HSCP care homes.

“Our care homes are currently full and open for visiting and we want to ensure residents and their families have a safe and enjoyable festive period. We are looking for people with relevant caring and support experience such as nursery staff to help cover the public holidays in particular.

READ MORE: Glasgow's Men Matter Scotland on lockdown fears

“Resident and staff safety is at the heart of everything we do and that remains our highest priority. Volunteers with relevant experience would be deployed alongside an experienced member of our team.”