Access Community Trust

Access Community Trust's vital services for vulnerable people and communities did not stop during the pandemic, so the charity took special steps to protect and support its workforce.

The rotas of front-line staff were cut by 40% while their pay was kept at 100%. Meals were delivered to workers who had to self-isolate, and help offered with shopping. Staff were offered PPE for their families as well as themselves and the trust's internal wellbeing services were fully opened up to their families too.

The Lowestoft-based charity moved fast to ease the concerns of those working from home and on furlough. For example, treat parcels were sent to staff whose families were suffering financially because of Covid-19. A company healthcare scheme was introduced in August.

The Chief Executive posted daily video messages, under the title “Let distance unite us”, to keep the whole team updated. Access has more than 160 staff providing services for excluded and vulnerable people, including accommodation, mental health support and employment in its community cafes.

Because of Covid, the charity adopted a roadshow approach to its usual staff engagement day. Over a week, senior management met small groups in a variety of fun locations, such as the local zoo.

The most popular venue was an outdoor learning centre, where the day started with team-building exercises such as making and lighting a bonfire without matches, and managers led presentations on topics such as safeguarding updates. Staff were provided with lunches to cook on the bonfire.