Case studies

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on the parks service at Leeds City Council.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, parks proved their status as lifelines for local communities. The loss of external income due to the closure of income generating facilities in parks and the loss of in kind volunteer contributions have left parks services in a vulnerable state.

St Helens Library Service works in partnership across the Council and beyond to ensure children and young people have a positive start in life, through the provision of quality books and activities that strengthen speech, language and communication.

Libraries faced an unprecedented demand for their services during lockdown. Libraries Connected estimate that libraries made 5 million additional digital loans and loaned 3.5 million more e-books than usual in this period.

Knowing that residents in lockdown would be facing isolation, loneliness and a lack of opportunity to engage in cultural activities, Barnsley Museums sought to continue their programmes in new and innovative ways.

The digital bootcamp supported over 20 organisations to build on their digital marketing and business skills, which in turn helped them to connect to their members and communities, develop their digital business and access guidance and funding.

“We have set about establishing a resilient relationship between council and sector, one built on understanding, respect and dialogue. We are able to respond to change, adversity and opportunity with confidence."

"Slung Low responded rapidly to the crisis facing the local community. They provided a vital lifeline to residents of Holbeck and Beeston."

The projects aim to support residents of East Lindsey who may be experiencing isolation, living in poor health or living with dementia. During lockdown the Trust had to find new ways to continue these projects and ensure some of the district’s most vulnerable residents were supported through the pandemic.

Festival Bridge is one of ten Bridge Organisations working nationally with investment from Arts Council England and the Department for Education. The aim of Bridge Organisations is to connect the cultural sector and the education sector so that children & young people can have access to great arts and cultural opportunities.