Covid Champions programme launched to help support vulnerable communities through the pandemic

The Covid Champions programme has been launched by Sunderland City Council to help build trust and empower at-risk groups to protect themselves and their families by providing vital health information, help and support.

A total of 40 new projects have been funded across the city to support those with disabilities, ethnic minorities, isolated young people, rough sleepers, LGBT+, veterans and asylum seekers.

The projects will also be available to those within Sunderland’s most deprived communities.

This January the council received funding to distribute to the Voluntary Community Sector and local charities to help support groups that are harder to reach.

Grace House, Headway, Royal Sunderland and County Durham Society for the Blind and Bede College are among those that will be deliver information on COVID 19, testing, vaccination programme, prevention of transmission and any issues families may face.

Some of the projects aim to reach out to residents with disabilities while others have plans to engage with those who may be lonely through social isolation.

Fiona Brown, Executive Director of Neighbourhoods at Sunderland City Council, said: "The targeted Covid Champions is a brilliant programme that will benefit our communities a great deal.

“There is a lot of misinformation out there, and we know some communities are struggling to access information and support. Through the work of these volunteers, we can ensure that everyone in our city know everything they need to stay happy, healthy, and safe."

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