Local communities are responding to the coronavirus crisis is different ways. There are actions we can take as individuals and as churches, to support our communities as we are able.
Here you can find some of the different ways you can respond. This page will be updated with new information and calls to action.
Church Leaders
Are you a Church or community leader helping your community to respond? You can find some guidance and support here:
Individuals
There are many ways you can respond as an individual, to support your community at this time. You should always follow government and NHS advice, adhering to social distancing measures and staying at home if you are vulnerable.
Foodbanks
As a consequence of COVID-19, those who rely on extra support to receive essential food and resources may find the next few months particularly difficult. For those with unreliable work or increased childcare commitments, as well as those unable to work and at increased risk because of illness, food and resources will be more challenging to get hold of.
Foodbanks are already beginning to be stretched as a result of the strain on resources. As a result, many UK foodbanks are running low on essential supplies such as long-life milk, cereal and pasta and have seen a fall in donations.
As we seek to care for the vulnerable and at risk in our communities, supporting your local foodbank is a practical way to be of help.
Read our guidance here
Trussell Trust Appeal
The Trussell Trust run the largest network of foodbanks in the UK. They are calling on Churches to ensure that foodbanks have the support they need to continue at this crucial time.
They are particularly seeking working-age volunteers in good health, to ensure that foodbanks remain open and food deliveries can take place.
Find out how you can respond here:
Local Mutual Aid Groups
Across the country, local mutual aid groups are being established to support those who are self isolating or require additional support. You can find a network of Mutual Aid groups here:
In Scotland, SCVO have coordinated a Coronavirus Community Assistance Directory. You can find this here.
Asylum Seekers and Refugees
Asylum Seekers and Refugees may be finding this time particularly challenging, due to lack of support or resources.
Doctors of the World have translated the latest government guidance into 20 languages, to support those for whom English is not their first language.
Doctors of the World Translated Public Health Guidance
Student Action for Refugees (SAFR) have produced some guidance on supporting refugees during COVID-19. You can find this here.
Our partners at Welcome Churches have produced coronavirus contact cards in six different languages, to support the refugees living in our communities. Find them here.
Right to Remain have produced some guidance on the changes to the asylum and immigration process due to COVID-19. Find it here.
Many local services for refugees and asylum seekers have temporarily closed due to COVID-19. You can find a list of services through the Refugee Council, to contact your local groups for information. Find it here.
Domestic Abuse
Those experiencing domestic abuse are at a much higher risk due to social distancing measures. Josie has written about the effect of this here.
Restored have offered some helpful guidance on working from home when you live with an abusive partner, and how to support employees or those you are aware may be experiencing this. You can find this here.