By Deborah Roe

THE spread of the Covid-19 virus across the world has led to one of the worst public health emergencies in generations. It is affecting every corner of society and, with each passing day, we are reminded that it will have a significant impact on our communities.

The first case was detected in Scotland in early March. Just three weeks later, the NHS is under severe pressure, businesses across the country are closing and we are now on “lockdown.” People are self-isolating, shelves are left empty and families are being separated. Jobs have been cut, redundancies have been made and unpaid leave has been offered.

With so much uncertainty, what is clear is that this is an unprecedented time for all.

The immediate impact on the economy is obvious – businesses and organisations are facing serious challenges. But what does this disruption mean for the charitable sector? Unfortunately, we, like so many others, will not be immune from the effects of this virus.

Since 2004, I have worked for Spina Bifida Hydrocephalus Scotland (SBH Scotland) – a charity that provides support to those who live with the life-long, complex disabilities of spina bifida and hydrocephalus. We’ve been a source of reliability and comfort to thousands of families for more than50 years.

Like many small charities, we rely almost entirely on personal donations to keep our services running. The postponement of major fundraising events including the London Marathon and Kiltwalk, as well as our own decision to cancel upcoming fundraising events, will have a significant impact on us.

We know that the Covid-19 spread is affecting everyone, including those who rely on services provided by charities and volunteers. But we also know that our SBH Scotland members, many of whom already deal with daily challenges because of their conditions, are now more worried than ever about what the next few months will bring.

To ensure we remain a constant for our users, SBH Scotland has made the decision that despite unprecedented financial challenges, we will continue to do whatever we can, with the resources we have.

The charitable sector is used to navigating in the face of adversity. However, to continue providing services to those who rely on us most, charitable organisations will need to adapt.

Already, the team at SBH Scotland have replaced regular home visits and clinics with telephone consultations and video chats, meaning we can continue to give advice to members. We’ve also launched a dedicated Coronavirus hub, manned by our clinical team, and are looking at providing online workshops.

With jobs at risk, entire industries shutting down and new Government measures being delivered each day, we understand that supporting the third sector will be more difficult than ever. However, for those who still can, I ask that you do. At times like these, the most vulnerable in society become even more so and, without the generosity of others, they will suffer even more.

Each day when we tune into the First Minister’s briefing, we are reminded of the devastating impact this virus is having around the world. However, we also see amazing stories of self-sacrifice to help those most in need. I have no doubt, that our communities will recover, and Scotland’s philanthropic spirit will emerge from this crisis stronger than ever. In the meantime, please remember the causes close to your heart if you possibly can.

Deborah Roe is Fundraising Director at Spina Bifida Hydrocephalus Scotland