NASUWT members are emailing their MPs to ask them to support the recognition of Long Covid as a disability under the Equality Act.

The Equality Act 2010 defines disability as a 'physical or mental impairment…[that] has a substantial and long-term adverse effect on [the] ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities'.

Government guidance makes clear that 'long-term' means 12 months or more.

Many of those who have Long Covid already meet this criterion and should therefore be protected under the law rather than be forced to go through the stress of employment tribunals.

Extending the protections under the Equality Act 2010 so they cover workers with Long Covid would ensure employers could not legally discriminate against them.

It would also place a duty on employers to make reasonable adjustments that remove, reduce or prevent any disadvantages that teachers with Long Covid face, as with any other enduring condition or disability.

In addition, ministers should also recognise Covid-19 as an occupational disease, entitling employees and their dependents to protection and compensation if they contracted the virus while working.

Please join us by emailing your MP to ask them to call for proper recognition of Long Covid using the template below.

Please enter your postcode and we'll find your MP.