In line with our values as an open, collaborative charity, we share our monthly reviews and quarterly reports with trustees, volunteers and the public. This means we can show our progress and hear your feedback on how to better support those affected by Covid-19 across the UK.
The two-year anniversary of the first lockdown in the UK was marked by the National Day of Reflection on 23 March, with events taking place around the country, including within our own community. We produced podcasts with partners including Marie Curie and Relate, attended a memorial event at Pollok Country Park for Scotland's Covid Memorial and held a minute silence during the our weekly drop-in café.
This was our largest ever day for website visitors – more than five times the previous record. Our success in this regard highlights the ongoing need for a charity that supports all people significantly affected by the Covid-19 pandemic, especially as attention shifts elsewhere and thousands are newly affected every week.
Highlights in March include:
StartUp Awards National Series:
We were honoured to receive our first ever award recognition for the StartUp Awards National Series in the Social StartUp category. These awards have been launched to recognise the booming startup scene across the UK which has accelerated since the beginning of the pandemic. Over 2,500 organisations applied, making this an incredible result for covid:aid to be shortlisted. Award winners will be announced in June.
Charity Collaborations:
We continue to collaborate with national organisations and charities to increase the support offerings we provide. This month, we spoke to Immunology Scientist, Dr Bnar Talabani MBE, about vaccine misinformation; Dee Holmes from Relate about how to speak to loved ones about loss and; Jane Murray from Marie Curie about why the National Day of Reflection is so important.
Speaking with Gillian Martin MSP:
We were delighted to speak to Gillian Martin, MSP and Convenor of the Health, Social Care and Sport Committee in the Scottish Parliament. We discussed the need for more Long Covid support and look forward to contributing to the work of the committee going forward.
New Board of Trustees Member:
Peter Gardiner became the latest addition to our Board of Trustees in March. Peter is an expert Consultant in international agricultural research and former Senior Advisor to CGIAR (an organisation conducting international agricultural research for development). His scientific and research background will play an important role in our charity as we continue to expand our knowledge-base of advice and information.
Thanks to all who continue to support our charity. In April, we will continue to shine a light on the need for improved Covid and post-Covid support, provide tailored resources to our free Support Community, and announce more incredible collaborations in the works.
Click here to view the March monthly highlights report.
