DN519980 Covid 19 Helpline Project

Tender description

Debt, fear of housing eviction, unemployment, no access to funds or food are all major triggers for mental health related problems such as stress, anxiety and depression. These are all issues that have, and will continue to be, exacerbated by Covid-19 and impacts on the most vulnerable communities of the population disproportionately thus contributing to a widening gap of health inequality. Liverpool City Council has a Helpline for people who require Covid specific support. Citizens Advice Liverpool (CAL) are uniquely positioned to receive referrals from this Helpline and support local residents faced with these concerns via a rapid call back service to assess need. Residents who will be supported will have either: tested positive; had contact with someone who may have been positive; been advised to isolate due to travel or medical treatment; or been identified as clinically extremely vulnerable and at highest risk of becoming very unwell if they contract COVID-19. In addition to provision of immediate access to food where necessary CAL work on behalf of these vulnerable groups to secure access to funds, avert the risk of eviction, provide access to employment support and onwardly refer people to social support as required to address any emerging issues that may present in relation to isolation, bereavement or relationship support. The number of local residents requiring this level of support is likely to increase as the year progresses as unemployment increases and the number of debts being pursued escalates. CAL are uniquely positioned to provide this support service because 1. They have existing staff expertise to respond to the diversity of expressed need (debt, housing eviction etc) that will evolve from residents impacted by Covid-19. 2 They already have established existing referral routes to key agencies thus being able to commence work immediately. 3. They are an existing Trusted Partner whom other agencies recognize and work with readily. 4. They have the necessary infrastructure to flex resources to accommodate spikes in demands for the service 5. As a local Agency CAL already have knowledge of the welfare landscape of the city.