COVID-19 Three Communities: What's changed?

Earlier this year we conducted a survey of three Manchester communities for whom English is a second language, and we are very pleased to be able to share with you the results and our findings.

Building on our report into this issue from last year, we found again that there is a lack of readily accessible information around COVID-19 safety for people from vulnerable communities. These include people for whom English is not their first language and for people who require extra support in understanding and adopting safety practices.

Across all of the groups and communities, the most frequent source of information and support has been their local pharmacy. It is clear that pharmacies are vital community assets when it comes to providing ready and accessible information for local people.

It is vitally important that all of our communities feel as though they have sufficient safety information around COVID-19 to help keep everyone safe. It is clear that more needs to be done to engage with these communities and to provide them with appropriate information.

Neil Walbran, our Chief Officer, said:

‘Vulnerable people are yet again forced to help themselves through this situation. We’re hoping our health leads will listen to their voices and make the right changes to protect them in the future.’