London, UK – Long Covid Advocacy has responded to the UK Covid-19 Public Inquiry’s second report, which focuses on political governance and core decision-making during the pandemic. The report has confirmed what many disabled people, chronically ill individuals, and Long Covid patients have known for years – the UK government’s response to the pandemic was inadequate, delayed, and showed a lack of concern for the most vulnerable.
According to the report, a disproportionate number of Covid-related deaths were among disabled or clinically vulnerable individuals. However, these communities were not considered in the government’s policy planning. Long Covid, a debilitating consequence of infection, was also not taken into account, despite its potential to affect millions.
Claire Higham from Long Covid Advocacy stated, “The government treated our lives as disposable and dispensable, leaving us to fend for ourselves while ministers delayed decisive action. Long Covid was never even considered, and people were left not knowing what had happened to them – with no medical support.”
Key findings highlighted by Long Covid Advocacy include the report’s confirmation that the UK went into lockdown a week too late, potentially costing tens of thousands of lives. Long Covid was also invisible in decision-making, communication, and strategy, despite being a significant issue affecting many individuals.
The report also revealed governance failures, including a toxic internal culture, groupthink, and inadequate oversight. In light of these findings, Long Covid Advocacy is calling for immediate action from the government.
The organization is requesting formal recognition of Long Covid as a named disability and a condition that requires an effective long-term national strategy. They are also seeking redress and a formal apology to disabled and chronically ill communities. Long Covid Advocacy is calling for structural reforms that embed disabled people and Long Covid patients in emergency planning and pandemic decision-making. They are also advocating for transparent public health policies that prioritize prevention, equity, and accountability.
“Post-acute viral illness has been neglected for far too long, leaving millions with chronic disability and ongoing suffering. The UK government must face the reality of the crisis it created and follow models like Germany’s, which has committed €500 million to cure Long Covid head-on. Ignoring this is not just a failure of policy – it’s a failure that is having profound economic and social consequences,” said a spokesperson for Long Covid Advocacy.
For more information about Long Covid Advocacy and their call to action, please visit their website at https://www.longcovidadvocacy.org.uk/.
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.