At Engineers Without Borders UK, we believe in the sector’s ability to create positive change. We are committed to continuously reviewing what more we can do as a movement to ensure engineering is focused on serving all people and the planet better than ever before, including during this global pandemic. Alongside delivering on our existing commitments we are supporting the response to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic in the following ways:

  • By highlighting opportunities to get involved to those in our community with relevant engineering skills and expertise.
  • By highlighting how engineering is playing a role in the Coronavirus (COVID-19) response.

As members of the engineering community, you have the opportunity to make a positive contribution to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. But it is key that we are all aware of our own limitations and our professional capability to ensure we engage in the most responsible way during this crisis. If you are considering responding directly, please do remember that:

Technology alone is not the answer. The response requires interdisciplinary approaches and a good understanding of the hierarchy of needs, to deploy resources most effectively in a timely manner.

Meeting needs now and exploring innovation for the future both play a role in the response. Sadly, it is likely we will face the challenge of Coronavirus around the world for many months to come, as well as similar challenges in the longer term. Therefore, it is vital that we also explore innovations that may help us better mitigate, prepare and respond in future.

Coronavirus is not the great equaliser. Existing inequalities will unfortunately be exacerbated in these circumstances, primarily impacting individuals and government’s ability to manage the outbreak. Sharing knowledge, learning and approaches can help address those inequalities, but we must recognise that there is no one right way to respond. Listen before taking action.

Those responding need the right skills and expertise. We are all driven by a desire to help others but we have to recognise where we are not the best fit. To assist in ensuring quality of response and not quantity, we encourage you to only volunteer when your skills are appropriate, preventing inundated calls for action, speeding up the process and response. You can still take action by forwarding these calls to those who may be a better fit, in addition to opportunities you would like us to consider sharing with our community at [email protected]. But first and foremost, all of us can follow the latest guidance to protect the health, safety and welfare of all people and support our healthcare systems to care for those most in need.

You can find the latest news and opportunities that we’re highlighting by following us on Twitter, LinkedIn or Facebook.