One of the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic is that of social isolation. There are concerns about the well-being of older people, those in sparsely populated areas, homeless people and some minority ethnic and migrant groups. Public health information may not reach them, and they may not have friends and family who can support them, potentially damaging their well-being and mental health.

A growing number of initiatives are reaching out to these groups. The UK’s Social Integration All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) has decided to run a short inquiry on social connection with isolated groups. The inquiry will have two parts.

Part one

The APPG has launched a written call for evidence, which will close on Friday, 17th April 2020.  The organisers invite participation from organisations working in this area and from people or new groups who are responding to COVID-19. The inquiry aims to hear about positive examples of good practice, the challenges that they have faced and how such difficulties have been overcome. They also invite businesses and public services, such as councils, to share their experiences.

Please visit the Social Integration APPG’s website for information on how to participate.

The APPG aims to produce a report by the end of April. Part two of the inquiry will take place when the situation begins to return to normal and will focus on the lessons learned.