UK charity launches to support all those affected by COVID-19

First UK charity set up to support all those affected by COVID-19 launches

covid:aid is the UK’s new national charity for all those affected by COVID-19. It launches today to link together and build a community of millions while working collaboratively to boost other organisations already providing support.

Looking to expand its offering as it grows, covid:aid will be community-led and informed by experts.

Initially the charity is focusing on three groups – those with Long COVID, those traumatised from having COVID-19, and those families and loved ones grieving those lost in the midst of the pandemic – however, the charity is aiming to support all those affected by COVID-19 in the UK.

Founder and Chief Executive Michael MacLennan said: “The public and social sectors, charities, community groups, and other organisations have all been doing amazing work over the past year – and refocusing existing services.

“However, it’s clear that there will be a need for dedicated and continuing support for those millions whose lives have been turned upside down by COVID-19. We are moving from a crisis to a chronic phase as the pandemic becomes endemic, and the long-term effects will be felt by millions for years to come – as the nation looks to recover from a collective trauma.

“covid:aid exists to provide hope to those struggling to recover. As a charity we want to build a community which is able to support each other – and which thrives in the process. As our community grows we will work collaboratively to identify unmet needs and launch new services.”

covid:aid appeared on the Independent SAGE briefing – which aims to provide advice to the United Kingdom government regarding the COVID-19 pandemic – earlier in May, gaining the support of several renowned U.K. experts.

Dr Zubaida Haque, Former Interim Director at The Runnymede Trust, said: “I think it’s a fantastic idea,” adding that she hoped the government would help with funding. She added: “We still don’t know what the long-term social, economic, mental and physical health consequences of Covid will be.” 

covid:aid is launching a digital hub which it intends to become the go-to destination for all those affected by COVID-19. Ways in which it will initially provide support include:

• Signposting to ensure people can find the support they require, wherever they are (and that they can alert covid:aid if there is a gap)

• Hosting online community spaces for people to share their own stories, experiences, and advice

• Telling the stories of those affected, and ensuring the voices of those affected aren't forgotten

• Launching podcast series Covid Matters which will feature conversations with experts around central issues concerning COVID-19, and which will provide expert-led advice and guidance

• Highlighting issues of concern to the media and governmental bodies, and looking to positively influence the shape of public policy 

• Developing new services through speaking to those affected to identify current gaps – and working together to build solutions

“We have set up to be flexible, meaning we can swiftly react to community need,” Michael said. “From this solid foundation we can develop and launch any required additional services, employing a collaborative approach with our community as well as existing organisations. 

“Our vision is that every single adult, young person, and child in the UK should be able to easily find and access the vital support they require to deal with the traumatic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.”