COVID-19 STORIES: Investigating the impact of COVID-19 on local communities within East Sussex

Understanding the psychosocial impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated restrictions has been identified as a public health research priority. Some groups may be more vulnerable than others to the psychosocial effects of pandemics. In particular, those at heightened risk for COVID-19 including those who are socioeconomically disadvantaged, and those with existing medical conditions (e.g. older people, people with comprised immune system).

There is currently limited qualitative research on the impact of COVID-19 and associated infection control measures on local communities. Qualitative research carried out during the COVID-19 pandemic can complement epidemiological data by providing insight into people’s lived experiences of pandemics, social responses, and insight into into unexpected consequences.

This project therefore aims to investigate the psychosocial impacts of COVID-19 and infection control measures on a range of individuals within East Sussex.