Healthwatch appeal for experiences of Long Covid

Healthwatch Richmond is looking to speak to people in the borough who have had signs and symptoms for more than 12 weeks following a viral infection, such as Covid-19.

More than 1 in every 100 people in the UK report experiencing long term symptoms after having had Covid-19.

Of these, 4 in every 10 experience these symptoms for over a year after infection, according to the Office for National Statistics.

Long Covid is raising questions about how best to support the people suffering from it, and has created a challenge for health services.

Healthwatch want to know residents’ experiences of Long Covid and, if applicable, hiow they have gotten support for it.

Symptoms include fatigue, headaches, tiredness, problems with memory and concentration ("brain fog"), anxiety, shortness of breath and muscle pain.

One Richmond resident told Healthwatch: “The relapses are every few weeks, I feel like I am doing well then it hits all over again but not as severe this has been ongoing for 5:6 months. I cannot run, swim or exercise that involves cardio like I used to without getting breathless and tired.”

The health charity said it wanted the voices of Richmond residents suffering from Long Covid to be at the centre of the design of support services.

A Healthwatch spokesperson said: “The experiences we hear will be anonymously compiled into a report, which we will present to the CCG and to the local groups that shape support services.”

“Fill in our survey and help shape the support that you need.”

You can contribute by completing our online survey or requesting a copy from us. https://www.healthwatchrichmond.co.uk/news/2021-07-19/long-covid-tell-us-your-experiences 

Get in touch: Call: 0208 099 5335 between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday. Post: Healthwatch Richmond, 82 Hampton Road, TW2 5QS, Twickenham. Email (for general enquiries): info@healthwatchrichmond.co.uk Email (to participate in the Long Covid Project): participation@healthwatchrichmond.co.uk