Long Covid, a condition that continues to impact millions of individuals across the UK, is once again in the spotlight as communities and advocacy groups come together on March 15th for Long Covid Awareness Day. The aim of this day is to raise awareness of the ongoing and often debilitating effects of Long Covid and demand urgent action from the government.
In an effort to amplify their message, various campaigns and initiatives have been launched across the country. The Long Covid Advocacy group has launched a postcard campaign, #Postcards4LC, which aims to urge key health figures and policymakers to prioritize funding for Long Covid research and treatment. Not Recovered UK is distributing informative leaflets and lighting up buildings in Edinburgh and London to raise awareness within local communities.
The personal impact of Long Covid cannot be ignored, with recent estimates suggesting over 2.5 million people are living with the condition in the UK. Symptoms can range from fatigue and cognitive dysfunction to severe respiratory issues and debilitating pain, making it difficult for sufferers to return to work or maintain daily activities. These personal stories highlight the ongoing and often invisible burden of Long Covid.
The economic consequences of Long Covid are also significant, with the Office for National Statistics (ONS) reporting that the condition contributed to approximately 1.5 million working-age people being unable to work or reduced in their working capacity in 2024. This has resulted in an estimated annual economic loss of £10 billion due to lost working hours, healthcare expenses, and the broader societal strain of caring for those affected.
To address this pressing issue, advocates and affected communities are calling on the UK government to commit substantial funding towards research into biomarkers, drug treatments, and a deeper understanding of the pathophysiology of Long Covid. Claire Every, spokesperson for Long Covid Advocacy, states, “Long Covid is a national health crisis, and it’s time for the government to recognize the immense strain it places on individuals, families, and the economy.”
Alex Sprackland, spokesperson for Not Recovered UK, adds, “We are now 5 years into the Covid-19 pandemic and according to ONS there are 2 million people in the UK suffering from Long Covid. To this day, there are still no treatments for those people suffering. Research has stalled due to lack of funding and the Long Covid clinics are closing leaving people without hope. The government promised the people suffering help, we want to know… Where is it?”
Individuals across the UK are encouraged to get involved in Long Covid Awareness Day by participating in their local campaigns and events, sharing their personal stories, and raising awareness through social media. For more information on how to get involved, please visit the websites of Long Covid Advocacy and Not Recovered UK.
Long Covid Advocacy is a grassroots organization dedicated to supporting individuals impacted by Long Covid through community engagement, policy advocacy, and raising public awareness. Not Recovered UK is a national campaign focused on providing information, support, and advocacy for individuals living with Long Covid. Together, they hope to bring attention to this pressing issue and push for better support and healthcare for those living with the condition.
