SoNAR Global - COVID-19

Description

The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbates existing social inequalities. Socioeconomically disadvantaged populations, among others, are more frequently and severely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, new vulnerable groups are emerging whose lives are made more difficult in many ways by the restrictions accompanying the pandemic during various phases of the lockdown.

The SoNAR Global project is conducting a assessment of vulnerability in five European countries (Germany, France, Malta, Italy, Slovenia) during the COVID-19 pandemic with different vulnerable groups. The aim of the research project in Germany is to develop a deeper understanding of the vulnerability of the impact of the pandemic on different groups, using the example of a large German city and in particular the example of the state capital Munich and its surrounding more rural areas. Of particular interest is which groups are considered vulnerable in the COVID-19 pandemic, what psychosocial difficulties these vulnerable groups face in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic, how formal and community services are perceived and accepted in the pandemic, and what coping strategies respondents indicate.

The study uses a qualitative research approach to conduct a comprehensive Rapid Health Assessment in groups assumed or identified as vulnerable to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Data will be collected from approximately 100 participants. The vulnerability assessment will be complemented by a stakeholder consultation with representatives of the different groups considered in the project (e.g. (international) students, people with migration background, elderly people).

The results of this study will be written up in the form of an EU report and can be applied to the planning and implementation of future prevention and care projects in relation to various health issues and disparities