10 great things we’ve learnt since coronavirus hit

In times of crisis it’s important to remind ourselves that it’s not all doom and gloom. There is, and continues to be, some good that’s come out of the coronavirus pandemic. Here’s 10 things we’ve learnt:

1. We’re using music to bring people and communities together. Coldplay’s Chris Martin streamed a free concert live on instagram for fans who are in self isolation and quarantined Italians have been joining on balconies to sing their hearts out.
2. We’re coming up with simple ideas that make a big difference. A Cornwall based lecturer designed a simple postcard that you can fill out and drop in someone’s letterbox offering to help if they’re self isolating. And it’s gone Global!
3. We’re working in different ways. In response to increased risk of cross infection, the NHS ordered GP surgeries to conduct video consultations for as many patients as possible. It’s one of the ways they are reducing the impact on the service, minimising the spread of infection and maintaining access for patients who need to access surgeries for other issues. This positive move allows GPs to work flexibly and in a way that’s more effective for all, and it may well spell the future of digitising healthcare.
4. Some businesses are rising to the challenge of supporting customers. Time Out, the media business built on social events, has temporarily changed its name to Time In and has launched a ‘Love Local’ campaign to show empathy and support for local venues.
5. We’re avoiding big groups of people, and getting out in the fresh air. The National Trust are keeping their gardens open, and free, during social distancing. Hooray. Facilities are closed so bring your own picnic!
6. We’re paying attention to what matters. At times of crisis we tend to pay more attention to what we usually take for granted — family, friends, health, the world around us. This article explains it brilliantly.
7. We’re seeing collaboration on a Global scale. World Governments are working together on preventative measures and collaborating like never before. For example China has sent medical supplies and medical experts to help stem the spread in Italy.
8. Companies are giving back. Here’s 50 ways; number 3 and 48 are our favourites. A big elbow high-five to free stuff for schools and LVMH for manufacturing hand sanitiser and giving it to the French health authorities for free.
9. We’re seeing acts of kindness in the community. A seven-year-old boy from Essex used his pocket money to buy toilet roll for elderly neighbours, and hand delivered it in his cart. Next up he plans to buy milk and bread. And we’re seeing this on a bigger scale as an extra 10,000 volunteers have signed up to The British Red Cross to provide doorstep support to those in need.
10. We’re paying attention to the earth. Experts say the global health crisis is reducing carbon emissions and highlighting how quickly leaders can take action on the advice of scientists to protect human wellbeing. While the reduction may only be temporary it paves the way for future long term action for the good of our planet.

Gemma Slater is a Consultant at Fluxx, a company that uses experiments to understand customers, helping clients to build better products. Find out more about our work with Zopa, Vogue, Nationwide and Croydon Council, or email Gemma Slater at gemma.slater@fluxx.uk.com.

If you’d like to see ways we’ve helped companies and could help yours, take a look at our site: Fluxx.uk.com and subscribe to our newsletter.