Community needs assessment key findings – Mumbai
Aug 27 2020 / Posted in

The "Community Needs Assessment" conducted in Mumbai and Thane during May to June 2020 aimed to evaluate the understanding and response of urban poor communities to the COVID-19 pandemic. With 1,567 respondents, mostly women, the survey revealed that while awareness of COVID-19 symptoms and preventive measures was high, economic challenges were the primary concern.
Key findings include:
• Awareness and Information Sources: 95% of respondents were aware of preventive measures like handwashing, wearing masks, and social distancing. Television was the main source of information, followed by family, friends, and social media.
• Economic Impact: A significant 85% of respondents reported loss or reduction in income, leading to food insecurity. About 14% of families had to skip meals due to a lack of resources.
• Health and Safety Concerns: The majority of respondents were worried about their family's health and restricted access to food supplies. There was also a notable concern regarding unemployment and the inability to pay bills.
• Preventive Measures: High adherence to preventive measures was reported, with 96% practicing regular handwashing and 95% wearing masks. However, awareness of new COVID-19 symptoms like headaches and body aches was low.
• Trust in Institutions: The survey showed strong trust in police and hospitals to handle the pandemic efficiently. However, only 35% were aware of COVID-19 relief helplines, and even fewer used them.
The findings suggest a need for continued support in food security, economic stability, and enhanced communication on COVID-19 symptoms and available helplines. The survey underscores the importance of addressing the economic and health concerns of vulnerable communities during the ongoing pandemic.
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