King's College London

The Covid-19 pandemic has caused health complications across the UK, particularly within the Black, Asian, and minority ethnic communities. Due to existing medical conditions observed in this population group, the associated risk for Covid-19 is higher with more severe complications. The response to the pandemic is affected by various key factors, additionally self-isolation and social distancing are likely to have a psychological impact with long lasting consequences.

This project will explore the long-term impacts of Covid-19 on the health and wellbeing of Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities and faith groups during and post the Covid-19 pandemic. The assessments will include online/telephone questionnaire surveys at baseline, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months, followed by annual assessment over the duration of 5 years.

With the current lack of knowledge, this study is likely to have a positive impact on the delivery of care and quality of life. The study will collect information on psychological impacts, support provided and coping strategies within these cohorts, with an immediate impact for the current cohort and important relevance for similar future situations. The project will also provide validated supportive information on how to cope better post this pandemic.

The overarching aim is to develop a better understanding of long-term key issues relating to health and wellbeing in Black, Asian and minority ethnicities, and faith groups, during and post the COVID-19 pandemic. The following research questions will be explored:

• To assess health and wellbeing of Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities and faith groups during the Covid-19 pandemic
• To assess service use and support and information available in relation to Covid-19 within this population
• To assess mental health needs within Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities and faith groups
• To assess barriers for service use within Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities and faith groups
• To assess dementia awareness and knowledge within Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities and faith groups

Ethics

Ethics approval is obtained from the King’s College London Research Ethics Committee LRM-21/22-18616.

Access the baseline survey here: https://app.onlinesurveys.jisc.ac.uk/s/kings/care-network-baseline-study-survey-v3

Inclusion criteria

• Adults aged > 40
• Good understanding of the English language
• People without a diagnosis of dementia, with the capacity to consent