Long COVID Impact on NHS Staff: Report
This Healthwatch Redbridge report focuses on staff experiences of health deterioration, accessibility to support, and the challenges they face in accessing Long COVID services.
Key findings include the emotional and physical toll Long COVID takes on staff, with many experiencing significant health declines, including fatigue, difficulty exercising, and irregular periods.
Over a third of respondents sought support, mainly through online resources, but faced challenges navigating services like GP referrals and the Long COVID clinic. A portion of staff also requested sick leave or workplace adjustments but didn’t always feel comfortable asking for changes or support.
The research highlights barriers to accessing care, such as digital exclusion and cultural reluctance to seek help. Working to reduce the barriers and acknowledging the need to gain access to support for Long COVID are a critical workforce issue.
Recommendations include further research into workplace culture, improving access to the Long COVID service, ensuring support for digitally excluded staff, and addressing reasonable adjustments for sick employees early on.