Statement on UK Covid-19 Inquiry Findings - Long Covid Scotland

Long Covid Scotland welcomes yesterday’s inquiry report, which confirms what so many already knew: the UK and Scottish Governments’ early pandemic response was “too little, too late.” These failures did not just cost lives, they created a long-term wave of illness that continues to affect thousands of people living with Long Covid, with new cases still emerging every day.

The inquiry highlights the absence of early strategy, poor preparation, and slow decision-making. For those now living with Long Covid, these gaps translated into years of inadequate clinical support, very limited services, and ongoing uncertainty. Surviving COVID-19 was not the end of the crisis for us, it was the beginning. And for many newly affected people, it is the beginning today.

As governments reflect on the report, Long Covid must be central to future planning, not an afterthought. We need a clear national strategy, properly funded services in every Health Board, investment in research and rehabilitation, effective Public health messaging and meaningful involvement of people with lived experience in all decisions.

These findings must lead to action. For the Long Covid community, acknowledgement alone is not enough. We need commitment, accountability, and a strategic plan that recognises the scale and seriousness of this condition in Scotland. Including the reality that yet more people are still developing Long Covid and will continue to need care.

Long Covid Scotland stands ready to work with government and partners but the next move must come with real, measurable change.