An estimated 1.3 million people in the UK (1.9% of the population) were experiencing self-reported long COVID as at October 2021. The prevalence and impact of long COVID is emerging as a significant concern and needs ongoing attention from people professionals.

To provide timely and appropriate support it is necessary to develop a deeper insight into the experience of those with long COVID in the workplace. This report provides important evidence to help organisations understand more about long COVID as a long-term fluctuating health condition. It includes insights from individuals who have direct experience of the condition, as well as the views and learnings from HR, health professionals and managers on the measures that can best support people to manage their symptoms and stay in work.

The report offers recommendations for organisations on how to effectively support those with long COVID to return to, and stay in, work.

While the findings and recommendations are based on the UK context, the broader implications should be of interest wherever you are based. 

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Working with long COVID – Research evidence to inform support

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The key findings from the report have been translated into CIPD practical guidance and advice for HR, line managers, colleagues and employees with long COVID to provide effective support.

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