Empower Women for Change is proud to announce our partnership with Glasgow University on its research on the health and social impact of COVID-19 measures on the lives of vulnerable communities in Scotland. We as an organisation have over the years worked on different projects to support women and our local ethnic minority community highlighting their challenges and helping them achieve their potential. This project adds up to our COVID-19 support projects and we aim to further bring to light the contributions of our community and challenges faced as a result of COVID-19.
The four study areas (streams) of the research:
- Refugee/asylum process involved and facing destitution (RAD)
- Disability or chronic health condition (DHC)
- Criminal justice involved (CJS)
- Domestic abuse or sexual violence risk/survivor (DASV)
This project was organised in four study areas that examined the impact of Covid-19 suppression measures on specific marginalised groups.
We were actively involved in representing the voice of our service users that are seeking asylum or have a refugee status in Scotland.
Findings
All findings could be found here: https://scotlandinlockdown.co.uk/findings/
Food security: some people have faced barriers in accessing food, including food appropriate for medical or cultural needs.
Information and exclusion: some people faced digital exclusion or other barriers accessing information.
Mental health: many people told us about experiences of depression and anxiety, and that access to services and support has become more difficult.
Service provision: service providers have faced a uniquely challenging time, reporting increased demand from client groups and funding uncertainty.
