‘Caring in Covid’ project celebrates inspiring stories from care sector’s pandemic response

The National Care Forum (NCF) has published a free new eBook that seeks to help record and highlight the incredible response of the not-for-profit sector since the pandemic started.

The eBook reflects a selection of the stories NCF received from its members to bring together uplifting stories of community, the frontline, leadership, connection and fun in one place from the start of the pandemic up to mid-October 2020.

The book is split into five distinct chapters that cover stories from frontline workers, to community projects and initiatives and support from volunteers.

The project covers stories such as frontline workers leaving their families to care for residents, how an Elvis impersonator made a difference as a support worker, the story of a man who spent four months living in his greenhouse to protect his family, and how one care home sparked a daily dance routine in their community.

The NCF described the book as a ‘piece of social history’ that details how the social care community came together to support those who needed it most.

The project will become part of the British Library collection for future generations as well as acknowledges the vital role care providers played in the fight during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Vic Rayner, Executive Director of the National Care Forum said:
“This book is more than just a nod to social history; it demonstrates how people’s lives are enriched by the role of those working in the care sector through their creativity, dedication and passion, and through their many skills and talents.
“The reader peeks behind the closed doors and experiences what it was really like for care staff, residents in care homes, and people needing support in their own homes during lockdown.
“We are proud to dedicate this eBook to everyone whose life has been touched by care during the pandemic and hope these stories of pain, challenge, hope and humanity will resonate with many, to show how truly exceptional the care sector has been in responding to the challenges of this pandemic.”