Those facing hardship in Edinburgh are being asked to share their stories of how the coronavirus is affecting them
People experiencing poverty in Edinburgh are being encouraged to share their stories of how the coronavirus outbreak is impacting their lives.
In a blog posted by the Edinburgh Poverty Commission - which has been working since 2018 on solutions to put an end to poverty in the city - chair Jim McCormick has asked for anyone in financial hardship to share their experience.
The commission is reaching out to hear about the experiences of people living in poverty in the city during the outbreak. It is collecting information on the challenges people are now facing and the solutions that need to be put in place to get through the months ahead. They are also keen to learn about examples of compassion and kindness which are making a difference to people's lives across the city.
These testimonials will be used to shape the short-term actions that are needed to support the city.
McCormick said: “We know that all of us in society are being challenged on so many fronts by the spread of coronavirus, in ways we never could have imagined. We know too that there are particular and pressing challenges for those who are trapped in poverty, who may have precarious working arrangements and/or be in poor health, have a disability or have caring responsibilities - all of whom will be feeling increasingly anxious about how they can support themselves and loved ones right now.
“Reaction is fast paced and much of what has been put in place by the UK Government, Scottish Government and agencies within the city looks reassuring and focused on those who need help most. In the coming weeks, we will offer advice and support to organisations leading the response to coronavirus on the additional short-term actions we think the city needs to take during this period. Before we make those comments, we would like to hear about the immediate experiences of people living in poverty in Edinburgh during this outbreak.”
Commission vice chair, Councillor Cammy Day, said: “Work has been ramping up across Edinburgh to make sure our hardest hit citizens get the help they need. We’ve introduced measures like welfare, council tax and debt support for those facing financial hardship, emergency food supplies for vulnerable families and urgent accommodation for those without a home. In these uncertain times, the response from community groups, volunteers and kind neighbours has also been incredible and as a city we’ll be relying on this goodwill in the days and weeks to come.
“While urgent measures continue to be put in place, we also need to start thinking about what the future may hold. I'm pleased that the Poverty Commission is already building up a picture of how our most at-risk residents are impacted because now, more than ever, it's going to be so important that we work together to tackle poverty. Please, share your stories and experiences and help the Commission to help others.”
Those looking to get in touch can visit the commission's website or contact them via Twitter.
