Residents of Calderdale are encouraged to attend a series of workshop events aimed at making a positive impact on individuals grappling with symptoms of Long COVID.
While most individuals recover within a few days or weeks of their initial COVID-19 symptoms, for some, the effects can persist for an extended period even after the infection has subsided – commonly referred to as Long COVID.
In Calderdale, it is estimated that approximately 6000 individuals may be contending with Long COVID symptoms. Experiences vary, but prevalent enduring symptoms encompass fatigue, cognitive impairment, muscle pain, and shortness of breath.
As part of the Calderdale Cares Partnership, Calderdale Council has established a Long COVID Ideas Fund to enhance the quality of life for those with Long COVID.
The Council seeks input from individuals with firsthand experience of Long COVID, either personally or as caregivers, to determine the allocation of these funds. Workshops will be held at the Shay Stadium in Halifax on the following dates:
- Tuesday 19th September, from 2-4pm
- Tuesday 17th October, from 2-4pm
- Tuesday 14th November, from 12.30-3pm
These informal gatherings provide a platform for individuals to share their suggestions on support strategies for those with Long COVID and influence the allocation of funding. To reserve a spot at the sessions, please visit https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/long-covid-ideas-fund-workshop-tickets-692238723657
For those unable to attend in person, the sessions are also available online. During the booking process, you may choose the online option, and a link to the session will be sent to your registered email after checkout.
The sessions in October and November are also accessible to organisations or groups that can offer support to individuals with Long COVID.
Calderdale Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Health, Cllr Tim Swift, said; “We understand that sometimes the recovery from a COVID infection is not straightforward and there are many people in the borough who are experiencing long-lasting symptoms, known as Long COVID. We want to support these people on their road to recovery and we have created the Long COVID ideas fund to make a real difference.
“We are keen to hear from those who have experience of Long COVID as they are best placed to help decide how funding should be used and to get involved in projects to support others affected. These upcoming workshops will allow people to share their ideas and help shape future support for those with Long COVID in Calderdale.”
Calderdale Council’s Director for Public Health, Debs Harkins, said; “The time it takes for someone to get better from COVID varies from person to person. If you have long COVID, there can be lots of different symptoms which can change over time and they can have a real impact on the lives of those experiencing them.
“There’s lots of support already available, through the NHS and local support groups, but we want to expand on this and are asking those who have experience of Long COVID, to help us develop local support through the Long COVID Ideas Fund.”
For additional details about the Long COVID Ideas Fund, please visit https://new.calderdale.gov.uk/council/consultation-and-feedback/long-covid-ideas-fund.
