Thousands of people suffering from Long Covid will receive financial support from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) starting in April. Long Covid, which refers to the prolonged symptoms experienced by individuals weeks, months, or even years after contracting the virus, has been added to the list of medical conditions eligible for payments through the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) program. The benefit, which is tax-free and not means-tested, assists individuals with extra living costs associated with long-term physical or mental conditions that hinder their ability to perform daily tasks.
Currently, numerous individuals already receive PIP for Covid-related illnesses, and the maximum amount payable every four weeks will increase from £691 to £737.20 with the implementation of the new payment rates. Long Covid was recently recognized as a separate illness on the PIP list, allowing claimants to receive benefits based on the specific symptoms they are struggling with, even if they are not explicitly categorized as Long Covid.
The NHS provides a list of common symptoms associated with Long Covid, including extreme tiredness (fatigue), shortness of breath, loss of smell, and muscle aches. However, there are various other symptoms that can emerge post-Covid infection, such as memory and concentration issues, chest pain, difficulty sleeping, heart palpitations, dizziness, joint pain, depression, anxiety, tinnitus, earaches, gastrointestinal problems, changes in appetite, high temperature, cough, headaches, sore throat, altered sense of smell or taste, and rashes.
Those who have experienced Covid-19 symptoms for more than four weeks and are concerned about their condition are advised to consult with a GP. Medical professionals may conduct tests to further investigate the symptoms and rule out other potential causes. These tests could include blood tests, blood pressure and heart rate checks, chest X-rays, and oxygen level measurements. If the symptoms significantly impact an individual’s daily life, they may be referred to a specialist service specifically designed to address their specific symptoms. It is important to note that the severity of initial Covid-19 symptoms does not appear to be linked to the likelihood of experiencing long-term issues. Even individuals who initially experienced mild symptoms can still face ongoing health problems.
This latest initiative by the DWP aims to provide much-needed support to individuals grappling with the persistent effects of Long Covid. By recognizing Long Covid as a valid condition for PIP benefits, the government is taking steps to alleviate the financial burden and improve the quality of life for those affected. As the new payment rates come into effect, individuals with Long Covid will have access to additional financial aid to assist with their daily living expenses.
