Voices from the Pandemic: 6 Project Stories on Resilience, Adaptation and Continuation for UK Communities

Introduction 

This research explores community groups’ experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic.

It highlights how communities found new ways to bring support and connection to the people they serve and how National Lottery funded organisations supported people facing challenges.

Findings

The research found that:

• community projects pivoted quickly, learning new skills and approaches to address emergency conditions

• creativity played an important role in people’s wellbeing and sense of connection

• local organisations addressed problems like mental ill health and domestic violence, which were exacerbated by the pandemic

• prioritising their core purpose helped local organisations support their communities and strengthen relationships within communities

Overall, the six community-led projects helped isolated people feel cared for and boosted people’s resilience to cope with the crisis.