Politicians, policy makers and public servants have never faced a situation like this. They immediately need policies that really work. Best practices can serve as an inspiration, a starting point and a proof of concept.
A campaign to share stories of kindness on social media
To share stories of kindness and show that citizens’ sense of community is not confined by walls, the Mayor of London launched the #LondonTogether campaign.
18 digital solutions to support the vulnerable and people self-isolating
TechForce19 has awarded up to £25,000 each to innovations that offer a digital way to support vulnerable people who need to stay at home or need other help in the community for extended periods of time.
Take-away library books
A Swedish library organises contactless pick-ups of books outside the library to provide reading material during the lockdowns.
Using drones to inform people about Covid-19
In Tallinn the local government uses state-of-the-art technology to inform people about how to behave during the coronavirus crisis.
Support helpline for residents
To support people with mental health issues during the coronavirus crisis, the City of Ostrów Wielkopolski has launched a support hotline.
An initiative brings together volunteer teachers and families
La Classe à la Maison connects volunteer teachers and children and parents from kindergarten to 5th grade to ensure high-quality distance learning during the pandemic.
Using AI as early warning system
Artificial intelligence technology mines through news reports and online content to help experts recognize anomalies. When diseases first pop up in different areas of a country/state/city/area, it can often be difficult for politicians and policy-makers
Gender equality awareness campaign
A Turkish Mayor starts a campaign on gender equality to raise awareness on the importance of sharing household responsibilities during isolation.
Supporting local shops that offer home delivery
A geo-referenced online map shows the small neighborhood shops and businesses that sell essential goods and offer home delivery.
Government platform to recruit retired or unemployed health professionals
The French Ministry of Solidarity and Health launched a platform to recruit volunteers and health professionals who are unemployed or retired.
Psychological support for citizens
To meet concerns and psychological stress citizens might experience, a regional government has set up a hotline staffed by psychologists, life coaches and clerical companions.
A coronavirus action group to provide a reliable source of information
The Essex County Council (EEC), in partnership with Facebook and local communities, set up the Essex Coronavirus Action group which aims to provide the people of Essex with a trustworthy source of information and advice.