Covid-19 is likely to stretch trauma and structural inequalities even further, putting extra strain on those relying on foodbanks, mental health services and youth and women’s centres. There is a huge risk that police services delivering the emergency legislation while using the old tactics will deepen problems. But there are practical steps the police service can take to support communities through the ongoing stress of a disaster and address trauma and structural inequalities that existed before it occurred, writes Elsa Corry-Roake.