COVID-19 and outreach: the challenge and the response

Those from disadvantaged backgrounds are likely to be most adversely affected by the current pandemic and the consequent closure of schools and colleges. The longer-term economic consequences of COVID-19 and the potential for a recession may also have an especially detrimental impact on the educational aspirations of widening participation students. Under these circumstances it can be argued that the need for outreach is greater than ever. Yet, with schools and colleges closed to visitors, this is also a very challenging time for those seeking to widen access. This article discusses how outreach might respond to the crisis.