Survey reveals impact of Covid-19 on north-east families' finances, relationships and health

A survey has revealed the long-lasting impact of Covid-19 on families in the north-east.

Grampian Housing Association found that of more than 1,100 tenants who took part in a poll, more than half of them have been affected financially, either through reduced hours of employment or being made redundant.

A number of them expressed concerns about falling into rent arrears.

Meanwhile more than a third of respondents said their overall health had deteriorated - while 70% said their mental health had got worse, and that the situation had affected their relationships.

More than 40% also said they felt their children's lives had been adversely impacted.

Chris Mathieson - compliance, engagement and support lead at Grampian Housing Association - said: "We continue to put our tenants first and we are using this feedback to ensure our services meet their needs and expectations as well as seeing it as an opportunity to engage more regularly and effectively.

"In response to the survey results our staff contacted tenants, depending on their circumstances, to offer follow up advice and to ensure they had relevant support in place where it was required. 

"We also offered housing support as well as money, debt and energy advice through our Assist, Smart and Energy projects. Referrals to these services certainly increased at the height of the pandemic and we are pleased that staff were on hand to provide this extra help and support for tenants when it was most needed."