Precarious employment and school closures due to COVID-19 have exacerbated poverty faced by vulnerable families in the UK. There is increased stress in families as many parents have been made redundant, are in debt, and have reduced incomes. Poverty has increased and been exacerbated due to these issues and lack of IT equipment means children are falling behind on their education as they cannot access online learning. Families also face issues due to stress, anxiety, and food and fuel poverty.

SHS Practitioners are keeping in touch with vulnerable families, and schools are referring families previously not deemed at risk but who now need our help. Our frontline staff are regularly phoning families to check on children's wellbeing, referring them to food banks, ensuring children can continue to learn, and supporting parents' anxiety and stress linked to the virus. They are providing practical help to combat poverty, advice on debt, finances, and childcare, and sharing resources.