The Covid-19 pandemic brought unprecedented change to people and communities worldwide, and Somerset is no exception. However, what stands out is the way in which Somerset’s VCFSEs stepped up to the challenge. As many other services closed their doors, these organisations mobilised to provide practical, emotional, and social support across Somerset.

This is evidenced by Reflect, Recover, Renew, a project delivered by Spark Somerset and supported by Somerset County Council and Somerset Community Foundation. It explores the impact of Covid-19 and creates a shared vision for the future of the VCSE sector in Somerset.

Commencing in June 2021, the five-month, qualitative project was meticulously researched by Dr Oliver Clabburn. As well as identifying the implications of the pandemic, the findings published in the report will be instrumental in helping us to understand current and future needs of the sector.

The conclusions drawn are co-produced with the input and contributions of individual participants from a diverse range of organisations. In all, 270 people representing 190 separate VCSEs from across Somerset shared their experiences, and we would like to say a big thank you to everyone who contributed to this process.