Press Statement
We acknowledge the release of the Covid Inquiry report on Module One and recognise the time required to read and process its findings thoroughly. We are encouraged by the report's emphasis on assessing both long-term and short-term risks and their interactions.
It is our hope that Module 8, the children's module, will build on this recommendation, with a particular focus on considering long-term risks from COVID-19 and ensuring children are included in all aspects of pandemic preparedness.
We stand in solidarity with the 2 million adults, children, and young people living with Long Covid, as well as the clinically vulnerable and bereaved families for whom this report, which clearly outlines the failures in the UK's approach, may be particularly challenging to read.
Our commitment remains to advocate for children and young people with Long Covid, ensuring their voices are heard and driving changes that improve their access to health and education services.
We look forward to Module 8, which will focus on children and young people, providing an opportunity to address the long-term impacts of those doubly disadvantaged by the pandemic through experience and illness and balance these with the risks from mitigation measures.
We anticipate a thorough exploration of the unique challenges faced by children with Long Covid, who were doubly disadvantaged by the pandemic through experience and illness.
Baroness Hallett stated, “It was widely believed the UK was one of the best-prepared countries to respond to a pandemic. This belief was dangerously mistaken.” Additionally, she noted that the most vulnerable will suffer in the next pandemic as they have in this one. However, it is crucial to remember not only those who suffered during the pandemic but also those who continue to suffer, especially those with Long Covid, whose struggles must not be neglected.
Sammie McFarland, LCK Founder said:
"Baroness Hallett has made firm recommendations today. This report on Module 1 gives confidence that, when presented with the full and substantive information, including direct representation for children and young people with lived experience, the impact of Long Covid on children will be addressed in Module 8, and that equally firm recommendations will be made."
Kirsty Stanley, LCK Health Lead
"It is crucial that all recommendations are acted on quickly, especially as another COVID wave grips the U.K. With the start of the summer holidays, our new government has the opportunity to intervene now and make schools safer before the autumn. We hope they take it."
Read the first report from the UK COVID-19 Inquiry here.
