Toynbee Hall · 2021
This participatory action research project, co-produced by Toynbee Hall and 17 peer researchers, investigated the impact of COVID-19 on Londoners disproportionately affected by the crisis, including those on low incomes, in insecure housing, with disabilities, or from ethnic minority backgrounds. Through 50 in-depth interviews and surveys, the project found that reduced household income, increased costs, barriers to advice, and social isolation had severely damaged participants' financial health and mental wellbeing. The research produced concrete policy recommendations around a minimum income guarantee, employment support, affordable internet access, community infrastructure, and inclusive public health communications. Peer researchers were central to designing the research, conducting interviews, and driving the policy influencing campaign.