Is Long COVID Recognised as a Disability?

Is long COVID recognised as a disability? We answer this question and provide support and advice for job seekers suffering from Long COVID.

Up to 2 million people in the UK are reportedly suffering from the effects of “long COVID” – or ‘Post-COVID-19 Syndrome’, with many jobseekers unable to work or needing special arrangements to stay productive. 

What Is Long COVID?

The term ‘long COVID’ is used to describe symptoms that remain at least four weeks after having COVID-19 (view our dedicated page on long COVID). Associated symptoms include

• extreme tiredness
• chest pains
• difficulty sleeping
• shortness of breath
• issues with concentration and memory. 

Symptoms can come and go, similar to chronic fatigue syndrome, and long COVID sufferers may find they are still not able to work after many months.

As this condition is having such a widespread effect, a common question now being asked by many of those diagnosed with long COVID is whether the condition is protected as a disability under the Equality Act 2010. Many people want to know whether they are entitled to disability-related support at work because of long COVID. 

When we talk about the symptoms and how long they can last, it is no surprise that people living with the condition are interested in knowing what support they are entitled to at work.

With that in mind, we’ve created this blog to discuss long COVID and its status as a disability in the UK. We will discuss what this means for people living with the condition and what to do to find the support they need. 

Is Long COVID Recognised as a Disability?

Previously, it had been unclear as to whether long COVID qualified as a disability or not. However, in 2022 the condition was ruled to be a disability in the UK for the first time via an employment tribunal. While long COVID doesn’t always count as a disability, in certain scenarios it is. These scenarios match up with the Equality Act’s definition of a disability, in that it must be something that:

• Lasts, or is expected to last, more than 12 months.
• Impacts a person severely on a daily basis.

If a person’s experience with long COVID can match these criteria, their condition may be classified as a disability. So, at the moment, the answer depends from person to person but it is indeed a possibility. 

If your individual experience with long COVID is classified as a disability, this means that you are entitled to certain support under UK employment law and the Equality Act. This support is relevant both in finding and maintaining a job. 

The best first step in figuring this out is to visit your GP. Describe your experience with COVID and long COVID in detail. They can provide any medical support you need and signpost you in the right direction for further tests and diagnoses. 

What Support is Available to Me as a Jobseeker?

If long COVID has made finding and maintaining employment difficult, Jobcentre Plus can offer tailored support, which can include:

• Long COVID self-assessment tool (to identify how Long COVID has affected you)
• Long COVID-specific work placement scheme called the Work Programme. It specialises in helping long COVID sufferers and those with other long-term disabilities.
• Access to job clubs and workshops.

If long COVID still hinders your ability to find work, you may be eligible for Incapacity Benefit (IB). Some long COVID sufferers have received this benefit by claiming through their GP or an Employment Support Allowance health professional. 

Long COVID sufferers wishing to claim IB need to undergo an assessment by an experienced healthcare professional. As such, you should speak with your GP if this benefit is more appropriate than Job Seekers Allowance (JSA).

When it comes to being in employment, you will be entitled to reasonable adjustments and protection from disability-related discrimination in the workplace. These two factors will make it easier for you to work without disadvantage despite your long COVID symptoms. Reasonable adjustments might include options, such as

• working from home
• having longer breaks
• having approved time off for doctor’s appointments and treatments. 

The easiest way to avail of such support is to find a disability-friendly employer who is educated on long COVID and how it can affect employees. These employers can provide the support you need so you can be happy and healthy at work. In this way, your experience with long COVID won’t force you into unemployment. 

How We Can Help 

Here at Careers with Disabilities, we have lots of tools and resources available to help you as a disabled job seeker. 

First of all, we offer information and guidance on important topics, such as grants and schemes, finding financial help in your area, and your rights at work. We also have our Disability Advice Hub through which you can find information specific to your own disability or health condition. 

Secondly, we have our disability-friendly job board and directory of accessible company profiles. Through these resources, you can find the best possible job for you in your desired industry and area. 

Working for a Disability Confident employer within an accessible environment is the best option for disabled people. It ensures that your needs will be met and that you will be protected from discrimination and bias. 

We believe that everyone deserves the support they need to get the job they want.

If you have any further questions, feel free to contact us to find out more.