‘Never more needed’ yet never more stretched: reflections on the role of the voluntary sector during the COVID-19 pandemic
2021
This research note presents the preliminary findings from a study into the mobilisation
of volunteers during the coronavirus pandemic. Data gathered from 49 semi-structured
interviews with representatives from local authorities (LAs), voluntary and community
sector (VCS) organisations and mutual aid coordinators offer important insights into
the state of the sector at this critical juncture, as we find ourselves in a third
national lockdown. The role of the VCS in both strategic responses and on-the-ground
community action has accorded it renewed respect and credibility. At the same time,
the funding landscape for voluntary organisations is uncertain, demand for services
is overwhelming, and staff and volunteers are suffering from fatigue. Our findings
highlight the imperative of embedding the lessons of the first national lockdown in
2020 by valuing the sector’s contribution to the emergency effort and retaining its
seat at the table, ensuring its role in economic and social recovery.
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