be backward in coming forward/ the needful

[vil]

Dear teachers,

Would you tell me whether I am right with my interpretation of the expressions in bold in the following sentence?
They are “rather backward in coming forward” with the needful.

be backward in coming forward = don’t do one’s best, don’t exert oneself

the needful = the needy, the indigent (plural)

indigent = a needy or destitute person

Thanks for your efforts.

Regards,

V.

[Rover_KE]

No.

It means they are reluctant to provide the necessary information.

Rover