The World Health Organization (WHO) declared Covid-19 a global pandemic on March 11, 2020. Fast forward five years, and the world continues to grapple with the virus's long-lasting effects. Over 7 million people globally have succumbed to the virus, with the United Kingdom recording nearly 227,000 deaths where Covid-19 was listed as a contributing factor. While vaccines and treatments have advanced, the repercussions of the pandemic are deeply etched into personal lives and societal norms.
The impact on education has been significant. In the academic year 2022-23, approximately 1.6 million pupils in England were identified as "persistently absent," missing at least 10% of school sessions. This absenteeism reflects broader societal challenges as families continue to navigate the complexities of the pandemic's aftermath.
Personal Losses and Ongoing Grief
Rosie, a resident of Leeds, recalls the sudden loss of her 64-year-old father in March 2020. He developed flu-like symptoms and, within a week, tested positive before passing away. The pandemic restrictions cast a shadow over his funeral, forcing Rosie and her husband to travel to the Lake District, only to return home immediately without holding a wake.
“I feel like I’ve lost a lot over the years and now, with the anniversary, it’s brought back a lot of memories and feelings. It’s hard to move on.” – Clarkson
Others have similar stories of grief and loss. Zoe Clarkson shares her struggle with the emotional toll of remembering those who passed during this time.
“I kept running through people’s names in my head and felt I couldn’t forget them as it would be disrespectful.” – Clarkson
The emotional scars remain raw for many, highlighting how deeply personal losses continue to resonate.
Economic Struggles and Health Challenges
For Astrid, a self-employed individual from Surrey, the pandemic has left lasting financial woes. As a limited company director, she was ineligible for self-employment income support. The resulting debt has been crippling, an all-too-common story among those whose livelihoods were disrupted.
Tom from Sheffield contracted Covid at work in June 2022 and has never fully recovered. Feeling excluded from public life, he expresses dismay at how vulnerable individuals have been treated.
“It makes me angry, the impression is that Covid is all over when it isn’t.” – Arrowsmith
Tom's partner Jade co-founded Breathe Easy Sheffield in April 2024 with her friend Chloe to create safer environments for those still cautious about Covid exposure. Despite the lifting of restrictions, Jade finds herself locked into a caregiver role.
“But we are not postpandemic, we’re post-precautions. Covid is still here.” – Jade
More than 2 million people in England and Scotland reported experiencing long Covid between November 2023 to March 2024. Over half indicated their symptoms have persisted for at least two years, underscoring the enduring health challenges many face.
Social Isolation and Mental Health
Peter Arrowsmith, a retired chartered accountant living with a neuromuscular condition, feels isolated due to ongoing health precautions.
“I still wear a mask when I go out and have been questioned and challenged by other people about it.” – Arrowsmith
The societal shift away from pandemic precautions leaves individuals like Arrowsmith feeling ignored. The pervasive sense of isolation he describes is echoed by many who find themselves grappling with both mental and physical barriers to returning to "normal" life.
Margaret's experience with her child's education during lockdowns highlights another layer of complexity.
“He found it really difficult to learn at home,” – Margaret
Her son struggled with remote learning, often hiding under tables during virtual lessons. This disruption in routine and education has impacted many families, leaving lasting concerns about children's development.