Blog: As community groups step up, challenges remain in the face of Covid-19
/SCDC’s Director Fiona Garven shares her thoughts on the critical importance of the community response to Covid-19.
The coronavirus outbreak has been the most disruptive crisis we’ve seen in generations and the response from all across society has been extraordinary.
Community organisations have been a huge part of that and, as they step up to support the communities they work with, it’s vital we understand their response and the issues they’re facing now and in the future.
We asked community organisations about the practical supports and funding they need to mitigate the impacts of the pandemic for the people they are working with, and what their priorities for action are.
With more than 90 responses we’ve gained valuable insights, and we’d like to thank those who took the time to share such comprehensive information.
Communities stepping up
Right across Scotland we have seen a huge local response, with community organisations changing or expanding their services to meet new and significant demand.
From providing emergency food provision and supporting victims of domestic violence to helping people who are forced to self-isolate by providing practical services and information, community organisations are playing a vital role - all whilst having to grapple with new ways of working and social distancing measures.
As many people continue to face extraordinary difficulties, especially those most at risk, it’s inspiring that community groups are playing such a powerful, positive and essential role.
Ongoing issues
However, we also know that significant issues remain and that community organisations will need more support and resources to continue this critical, frontline work, and to help with recovery going forward.
Groups told us that issues around staff numbers, drops in income and erosion of reserves, and the need to adjust to new ways of working remain significant challenges - ones that could have serious implications for how they deliver their work right now, as well as in the medium to longer term.
In addition to organisational pressures, groups have highlighted the increased demand on their services that is likely to continue, even after some social distancing measures are lifted.
As we all now realise, the health, social and economic impacts of the pandemic are going to with us for some time.
Going forward
Community organisations are on the ‘front line’ in supporting people who are most at risk in a community setting.
It's essential that they are recognised, acknowledged and supported as the impacts of this crisis unfold, to ensure their vital work can continue and adapt to the new ‘normal’ that will exist for some time to come.
This means adequate, appropriate and timely resourcing, but also access to PPE and key worker status where this is essential to keeping people safe and supported.
As public services also adapt, working effectively with and alongside communities will support the best outcomes we can hope for from the current crisis, and for building a sustainable model to help withstand the challenges ahead.
The information we have been gathering has already been used to inform how funding and policy can adapt to this emergency, and we'll continue to highlight the needs and priorities of community organisations over the coming weeks and months.
See the survey results here.
