A Dundee University student has organised a community-based response to the pandemic in one of the city’s most deprived areas.
As well as studying for an MSc Community Learning and Development degree, Neil Campbell is also the founder and director of RockSolid Dundee, a faith-based social action initiative.
Neil and RockSolid development manager Audrey Thomson initially set up a food larder at Douglas and Mid Craigie Church of Scotland, serving around 20 households.
With the help of a team of volunteers and other city organisations it now distributes around 200 daily lunches to locals, with the larder serving almost 100 households.
The group is also delivering food parcels to the isolated and vulnerable.
“We have been overwhelmed by the support of the local community,” said Neil.
“Statutory bodies are working extremely hard and doing a great job to tackle the difficulties faced across the city at this unprecedented time, however they cannot do everything.
“We are working in close collaboration with Dundee City Council, Faith in Community Dundee and Dundee Volunteer & Voluntary Action in emergency food provision across the city.
“We have also been humbled by the generosity of cash donations of close to £1,300. This has enabled us to purchase food and equipment and cover volunteer expenses.”
Neil, who is due to graduate this year, added: “My plans for the future are to continue to develop RockSolid. I also hope to be able to pursue further studies or research in the area of faith-based social action as a form of community development.”
