The future of the VCS: The importance of continued support post Covid-19
It has been amazing to see such a great response from the voluntary and community sector in Worcestershire throughout the pandemic supported by the generosity of the public through donations, volunteering and other avenues.
But what will happen as we move forward and begin to return to ‘normal’?
Will this support and generosity fade?
From our recent survey, we have seen some great examples of what VCS organisations have been doing across the county, as well as the vast number of people who have been going the extra mile to help those in need.
Although this has been great to see the future is still so uncertain.
There was one comment in particular from our recent survey that has prompted us to discuss this topic.
“Covid-19 has given everyone a stark reminder about emergency planning and preparedness. We are nervous that having had an initial influx of support, as Covid-19 fades the support will go too, but there will still be future emergencies to handle.”
This is a real concern for the sector as we move forward.
It is important that we do not forget that even though the initial ‘wave’ seems to be over, issues and emergencies will still be taking place further down the line, both as a result of the pandemic as well as those issues that already existed before.
With so much great work having been done, organisations need the great level of support that has been demonstrated to continue, to help them continue overcoming challenges and tackle future issues.
Here are just a few examples of what future issues the sector could be facing:
- An increase in mental health issues as a result of lockdown and social isolation.
- An increase in unemployment and redundancies causing more people to turn to local foodbanks for support.
- Supporting those escaping domestic abuse. From a recent BBC article, the charity Refuge shared that “In June, calls and contacts were nearly 80% higher than usual. And as restrictions ease, there is a surge in women seeking refuge places to escape their abusers.”
It has already been discussed how issues like the above, as well as other negative impacts of the pandemic could claim the lives of many more.
So what can we do to tackle this?
A sense of community and supporting one another has been key to helping the vulnerable and those in need throughout the lockdown. This continued support will be vital as we emerge from the pandemic and move forward.
With this in mind, we urge any of you who have been doing your bit to continue to do so even when you do return to your normal routine.
If you have not yet considered how you can help your local community, we also urge you to look at the many ways in which you can, whether that be through donating your time, resources or through donations.
Collaboration will be key and by working together, we can help to ensure the future is bright.