We work with and support a Reference Group of people with lived experience of poverty. They’ve compiled their initial experiences, reflections and recommendations on COVID-19 in a briefing to @SP_EHRiC. Here are the key points 👇 [1/8]
Read in full at scottishhumanrights.com/media/2016/bri…
Read in full at scottishhumanrights.com/media/2016/bri…
The group have seen a disproportionate impact on people’s #RightToFood in rural communities. Carers also face particular challenges. And people with special diets due to health conditions or cultural requirements need to be considered when it comes to emergency provisions. [2/8]
The group is concerned that some people are not eligible for some support because “high risk” is defined too narrowly. They recommend government instead uses the social model of disability to guide its approach. [3/8]
Fuel poverty is a concern. Some people are facing significant challenges in topping up energy pre-payment meters, unable to leave the house due to self-isolating and unable to contact electricity companies due to very high call volumes. Digital exclusion makes this worse. [4/8]
The group highlight the enormous impact that restrictions are having on employment and the knock-on effect on people’s right to an adequate standard of living. They call for a rights-based approach to social security from the UK Government. [5/8]
Mental health and well-being is a key challenge, both now and over the long term. [6/8]
The group recommends that current and future responses to COVID-19 adopt a human rights based approach. This includes upholding all human rights including economic, social and cultural rights including health, housing, an adequate standard of living, and social security. [7/8]
Read the Reference Group’s evidence from experience in full at scottishhumanrights.com/media/2016/bri… [8/8]
