The affect lockdown has had on local community members across diverse backgrounds

Released this week by the Western Sydney Migrant Resource Centre, the Amplifying voices during COVID-19 report describes how the long-term impact of the three-month lockdown will be felt in our communities long after restrictions have been lifted.

The report analyses the affect lockdown has had on local community members across diverse backgrounds.

The report highlights the biggest issues that have come to the fore during lockdown. Among them, distrust with institutions, the impact of mental health and the effectiveness of public health campaigns in Western Sydney.

One of the recommendations is that public health and wellbeing campaigns that are delivered from trusted local community-based organisations have the best outcomes. They will help to combat the distrust and ensure important messages are received by our most vulnerable.

The report also highlights real concerns about how quickly job prospects will reappear. With business hurting and without JobKeeper, JobSeeker and the withdrawal of the COVID Disaster Payment, many families and individuals will be left without support and anxiety will only increase.

The report recommends improved employment pathways. It suggests these can be better delivered through local place-based community organisations who are known to the community and more importantly trusted by them.

So many of the issues highlighted in the report were exacerbated by the pandemic. An acknowledgement of the issues is needed to fundamentally change and support our community.

Many of the recommendations in the report can be implemented immediately to support struggling communities.

Our community needs this support, and they need it now.