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Vulnerable Populations during COVID-19 in the Netherlands
Institution
Amsterdam Institute for Social Science Research
Country
Netherlands
Localities
Amsterdam and nationwide
Methodology
Mixed-methods
Key Focus of Study
The aim of this mixed-method social science study is to document the challenges, experiences and creativity of socially vulnerable Dutch populations during social isolation. What kinds of problems do people run into? Do they find solutions to these problems? What (other) solutions can be generated? How can policy support these solutions? We will provide actionable lessons about measures that can be taken to sustain social distancing. The rationale for this is that, if we have better insight in what the challenges are for vulnerable people to endure social isolation, we can develop policy and communication strategies to remedy this. Hence, social isolation can be made more humane and easier to bear. Using existing networks, we will conduct digital ethnographic and survey research among professionals, family, and others caring for groups regarded as vulnerable. We will assess what problems people experience and document solutions people find, by building a log through weekly consultations, and analysing the materials with a Grounded Theory approach. We will distill policy lessons learned in consultation with societal partners and provide recommendations on a short-term (one month) and medium-term (three months), followed by long-term peer-reviewed publications (one year). The main target groups are: 1) older adults, among those people living alone; people with dementia; people living in nursing homes; 2) people with severe psychiatric problems; 3) people with learning disabilities; and 4), and homeless populations. In addition, this study will uncover ‘new’ vulnerable groups by following emergency calls made at Veilig Thuis (the organization supporting victims of domestic violence) and the police (meldkamer). Our consortium is uniquely positioned to take on this task because all partners involved have existing relationships with the target groups and a long track-record in co-creating solutions for vulnerable and difficult to reach populations, health care workers, and policy makers.
Key Stakeholders
Institutes supporting older people, mental health, people with learning disabilities, homeless, young families, victims of domestic violence / police
Sample size
About 2000 survey respondents and 150 qualitative interviews
Timeframe
April 2020 - April 2021
Funding Institution(s)
ZonMw
Date data expected
First dissemination is may 25 2020
Status
Ongoing
More information contact
d.h.devries@uva.nl
