A Call for Accountability: Long Covid Children's Plight
As former Prime Minister Boris Johnson prepares to appear before the UK COVID-19 Inquiry on October 21, 2025, a wave of advocacy is emerging from an often-overlooked group: children suffering from Long Covid. With approximately 72,000 young individuals impacted, the urgency for recognition and effective action grows daily. Families navigating these long-term repercussions are not merely political players; they are fighting for their children's futures.
Historical Context: Unpreparedness in the Pandemic
During the pandemic, many believe that the government neglected the unique needs of children. Under Johnson’s leadership, the response to COVID-19 left schools unprepared to protect students adequately, evidenced by Claire Every, a Long Covid advocate, who pointed out an ideological disregard for biological illnesses. Thus, children were left without proper guidance or necessary health protections.
Voices of the Affected: A Call for Change
The Long Covid Advocacy (LCA) organization has made it clear that countless children are experiencing a life altered by chronic fatigue, isolation, and educational disruptions. Dr. Rupert Higham from UCL’s Institute of Education emphasizes the families' demand for justice and recognition of their plight, stating that they desire substantive change rather than mere apologies.
A Cultural Shift Needed in Perception
The ongoing stigma surrounding post-viral conditions continues to hinder children from receiving adequate medical support and accommodations. The predominant view often treats these serious health issues as psychosomatic, which can delay diagnoses and necessary interventions, further complicating their educational journeys.
Protecting our Future: Clean Air Initiatives
As the inquiry unfolds, initiatives such as Mayor Sadiq Khan’s air filtration investment for London schools offer a glimpse of how systemic change—grounded in children’s health and safety—can be achieved. The call from LCA highlights the need for proactive measures to ensure children are safe in educational settings, demonstrating that the convergence of health and policy is not only vital but feasible.
As advocates continue to amplify their voices, the call for justice, recognition, and critical changes to protect children persists. The ongoing inquiry is not just about accountability; it is an opportunity to reshape policies that safeguard the well-being of thousands of vulnerable children across the UK.
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