Raising Voices for Support, Research and Government Action
Long Covid Awareness Day, observed annually on March 15th, serves as a critical moment to highlight the ongoing struggles of millions living with Long Covid across the UK. As the long-term effects of the virus continue to impact individuals, advocacy groups and communities are uniting to demand urgent government action, increased funding for research, and improved support services.
Nationwide Campaigns to Drive Awareness
This year, coordinated efforts are focusing on government accountability and the economic and societal impact of Long Covid, which has left many unable to work and struggling with debilitating symptoms. Key initiatives include:
- #Postcards4LC Campaign – Organised by the Long Covid Advocacy group, this initiative urges policymakers to prioritise funding for research and treatment through a mass postcard campaign. Targeted recipients include key figures in UK health policy.
- Not Recovered UK Light-Up and Leaflet Campaign – The Not Recovered UK group will distribute leaflets in Edinburgh and London to educate the public on Long Covid symptoms, available support, and policy changes needed. Additionally, landmark buildings such as Shipbuilders Port in Glasgow and Penshaw Monument in Sunderland will be illuminated in teal to symbolise solidarity with those affected.
The Human and Economic Toll of Long Covid
Long Covid remains a major public health crisis, with over 2.5 million people in the UK estimated to be suffering from ongoing symptoms. The condition manifests in a wide range of health issues, including severe fatigue, cognitive dysfunction, respiratory complications, and chronic pain, often preventing individuals from returning to work or resuming daily activities.
A report from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) estimates that 1.5 million working-age individuals have been unable to work or have had their work capacity significantly reduced due to Long Covid. This has led to an annual economic loss of £10 billion, driven by lost productivity, healthcare costs, and the growing burden on social care systems.
Advocates Demand Government Action
On Long Covid Awareness Day, campaigners are calling on the UK government to deliver on its promises and take immediate steps to address the crisis. Key demands include:
- Increased research funding to identify biomarkers for more effective diagnoses and treatments.
- Investment in drug development to provide targeted treatments for those with persistent symptoms.
- Comprehensive studies on the pathophysiology of Long Covid, examining its effects on different organ systems to improve medical responses.
Voices from the Long Covid Community
Claire Every, spokesperson for Long Covid Advocacy, emphasised the urgent need for action: “Long Covid represents a critical public health issue, and it’s essential for the government to acknowledge the significant burden it places on individuals, families, and the wider economy. Without immediate funding and research, millions will continue to suffer without solutions.”
Alex Sprackland, spokesperson for Not Recovered UK, added: “We are now five years into the Covid-19 pandemic, and over two million people in the UK still suffer from Long Covid. Despite this, there are no approved treatments, research has stalled due to lack of funding, and clinics are shutting down. The government promised help where is it?”
How to Get Involved
Members of the public are encouraged to support the movement by:
- Participating in the #Postcards4LC campaign, writing to Ashley Dalton MP (Minister of Public Health & Prevention), Sir Stephen Powis (MD of NHS England), and Prof Lucy Chappell (CEO of NIHR).
- Sharing personal stories on social media to raise awareness.
- Attending awareness events and joining local advocacy efforts.
Long Covid Awareness Day is a reminder that millions continue to struggle without adequate support. As the crisis unfolds, campaigners urge policymakers to act now before more lives and livelihoods are lost to the lingering effects of Covid-19.
