Mansfield District Council has been allocated £187,929 funding through the Government’s Community Champions scheme to reach into the community and improve coronavirus information.

The funding is specifically targeted at areas with plans to reach groups such as older people, disabled people, and people from ethnic minority backgrounds who are, according to the latest evidence, most likely to suffer long-term impacts and poor outcomes from the Covid-19 pandemic.

Mansfield is one of 60 councils selected that have developed their own plan to improve communications with these groups, including school programmes, helplines and training sessions to help people provide information and advice.

The local bid aims to reach people through a partnership with Mansfield CVS, business leaders and influencers. The Community Champions will develop early discussions and communications with communities to understand appropriate ways to prevent and control Covid-19, including social isolation support, test and trace, social distancing, rumour dismantling and vaccine take-up and transportation.

Coun Marion Bradshaw, portfolio holder for safer communities, housing and wellbeing, said: “I am thrilled that the council has received this vital funding to reach communities that require further support and guidance on a range of matters relating to coronavirus. We are committed to engaging with and reaching as many people as possible who may be in at risk groups locally and helping them through the pandemic, and ultimately getting them vaccinated.”

Steve Morris, chief executive officer of Mansfield CVS, added: “This is a fantastic opportunity to showcase our community groups, VCS (Voluntary Community Sector) partners and leaders across the district. Most importantly this project will provide our residents to have ownership to shape, enable and empower new ways of thinking, through a range of community projects and initiatives. We cannot wait to get going.”

Mansfield MP Ben Bradley said: “It’s a relief that Government is committed to protecting groups disproportionately impacted by COVID-19. I’m pleased we’re taking a localised approach to tackle this virus so we can protect the most vulnerable people across Mansfield and Warsop.

“I’m always shouting up for Mansfield and fighting for funding, so I am delighted that the council has been given £187,929 to boost support locally.”