BME community members in the West of Scotland (especially low- and middle-income households) who faced higher risks during the pandemic. This included migrants and ethnic minorities in Paisley/Renfrewshire who might have barriers accessing mainstream health information.

The project helped bridge information gaps during the pandemic. It kept communities informed about COVID guidelines and vaccines in an accessible way. By facilitating virtual engagement and later in-person wellness activities, it combated isolation and promoted healthy behaviors. Community members gained knowledge in their own languages and felt supported during the crisis. Although specific metrics aren’t published, Pachedu’s outreach (via Facebook, WhatsApp groups, etc.) reportedly reached a wide audience and the weekly sessions drew regular participation (up to 40 people on Zoom). The project was highlighted during Black History Month 2020 as an example of Pachedu addressing urgent needs in a culturally sensitive manner.

National Lottery Awards for All (Community Fund) – £9,950 small grant. This funding covered materials, digital resources, and facilitation costs. Additional in-kind support came from Pachedu volunteers and local health professionals who contributed to workshops.

While Pachedu led this project, they worked in collaboration with local health authorities and the West of Scotland Regional Equality Council (WSREC) for initial emergency food distribution. See Me Scotland (the national anti-stigma program) took note of Pachedu’s work and later partnered with them on mental health training, indicating that Connected and Empowered built foundations for further collaboration on health stigma reduction.