Long Covid Kids

Long Covid Kids is a UK-based charity established by Sammie McFarland in October 2020 to support children, young people, and families affected by long COVID and related illnesses. The organization aims to raise awareness, provide support, and advocate for research and policy changes. It grew rapidly, reaching over 5,500 families by January 2022 and expanding to represent 11,000 families across two chapters in the UK by July 2024.

Helen Goss, the charity's COO and Scotland Representative, filed legal action against the NHS for alleged medical negligence regarding her daughter’s long COVID care. The charity focuses on raising awareness about symptoms to enable early diagnosis and offers educational materials, online meetings, and connections to healthcare professionals.

A survey by Frances Simpson identified over 100 symptoms reported by parents of children with long COVID. Long Covid Kids advocates for more research into the condition's effects on children and collaborated with other organizations to expose flaws in media-promoted studies suggesting quick recovery.

The charity also pushes for increased funding, public health campaigns in schools, and policy changes. It participated in the UK COVID inquiry as a core participant but was denied core status for Module 8, despite an overturned decision. The charity's efforts reflect its commitment to addressing the needs of children with long COVID and influencing meaningful change.