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New research highlights alarming financial implications among those affected by Long COVID

  • Area of Work: Policy and Research
  • Type: News Item
  • Published: 22nd September 2025

New research has highlighted the significant financial and social challenges faced by people living with Long COVID across Scotland.

The study “Long COVID, Long Consequences”, led by the Poverty Alliance and Robert Gordon University, highlights the financial, employment and social security challenges faced by those living with long COVID. The study draws on 13 lived experience interviews alongside input from third sector organisations who directly or indirectly support people living with Long COVID – including the ALLIANCE.

Findings highlighted a range of financial implications due to Long COVID, all of which were causing high levels of anxiety and stress for most participants. Key findings included;

  • Reduced income from long sick leave, reduced hours, job loss, or reliance on social security
  • Future financial insecurity from lower pension contributions, early pension drawdowns, and depleted savings
  • Limited employment support due to poor employer awareness of Long COVID, weak policies, expired sick pay and dismissals tied to uncertain recovery timelines
  • Barriers to social security, including low awareness of entitlements, complex application, long waits and systems that overlook the fluctuating nature of Long COVID

To find out more about the research and findings, click here.

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