'Why is Long Covid not being taken seriously' asks former Devon nurse'
Rachel Hext is worried about the Government's welfare reforms
A former Devon nurse with Long Covid has criticised the Government's latest welfare reforms, saying it's made a horrible situation even worse.
Former Brixham based nurse Rachel Hext is one of a number of health workers trying to take legal action- claiming they were forced to work without adequate protection.
The 37 year old mum-of-two from Paignton was signed-off from work permanently last year - after spending years trying to work and manage her condition - and is now worried about how she will survive financially if her benefits are cut in the latest reforms.
She said: "A lot of people would look at Long Covid and go, oh well it's just post viral, it will take time, your immune system is a bit angry and so on - but actually for me I've got widespread organ damage. My heart is scarred, my lungs are scarred there's obvious damage on my brain.
"I'm actually disgusted to tell you that for someone with a chronic fatigue-based syndrome illness I was on the phone for two-and-a-half hours of solid questioning- when has anyone ever had a job interview like that, let alone a pip assessment for someone who is disabled?"
"It's quite interesting the health secretary Wes Streeting, whilst he was on the campaign trai and in the lead-up to the election was actually quite supportive of Long Covid and mentioned it, I felt, whenever he could get it in. We've not heard much about it since - and now look at the state and what's happening to the welfare system."
In response a Department for Work and Pensions spokesperson said: “The social security system will always be there for those with severe health conditions and we will introduce a new premium for those who will never be able to work.
“Our reforms will unlock work for sick and disabled people who can and want to be in employment - backed by a £1 billion support offer to guarantee tailored help into work - ensuring they are supported to live with dignity and independence, whilst making sure that everyone who can realise the benefits of work is expected and supported to do so."
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