Why It's Important You Respond To The Public Consultation

Ever feel like you’re just not being listened to?

The upcoming Public Consultation on Long Covid will allow you to make your voice heard. It provides an opportunity to share your experiences, highlight challenges, and influence the policies and services directly affecting your life. There are changes being proposed and discussed that will impact all of us for a long time.

You can help shape a more informed and supportive approach to Long Covid in Scotland by taking part. And beyond making an impact, sharing your story can feel empowering and cathartic, giving you the chance to speak truth to power.

What Are Public Consultations?

Public consultations allow individuals and groups to give feedback on government plans, policies, or services. For example, the Scottish Government has run consultations on health services, funding priorities, and the National Care Service. Your input helps decision-makers understand what works and what doesn't from the perspective of those directly impacted.

"Consultations can be used to: inform the development of a particular policy, help decisions to be made between alternative policy proposals finalise new legislation before it is implemented."

- Scottish Government Guidance

You can often respond online, making the process accessible from your home. Public consultations usually provide accommodations, such as large print documents or submitting responses via phone. If accessibility is a concern, check the consultation details or contact the organisers for support.

Your Voice Matters

"The Squeaky Wheel Gets The Grease"

Long Covid has affected over 180,000 people in Scotland (ONS, 2024). Yet, one of the most common feelings is that we are not being seen, not being listened to - By responding to consultations:

• You bring lived experience to the table: Policymakers don't understand the day-to-day realities of Long Covid unless we tell them. We must tell them Repeatedly. We must tell them Loudly.

• You challenge assumptions: Sharing your story can highlight service gaps or dispel the myths about Long Covid.

• You influence change: Your input can help secure funding, improve healthcare services, and shape public understanding.

  Practical Steps to Respond

  Here's how you can make your voice count:

  1. Find relevant consultations: Visit Consult.gov.scot or follow Long Covid Scotland's social media for updates. We'll share when there are relevant ones.

  2. Prepare your response: Before starting, jot down key points you want to share. Focus on how Long Covid has impacted you and what changes are needed. Need help with this? Check out our plan for “How to write a Long Covid Impact Statement” 

  3. Answer honestly and clearly: Use plain language and be specific about your experiences. For example, if waiting times for Long Covid clinics have affected you, explain how. If there is no long covid clinic in your area, tell them about that.

  4. Include evidence where possible: If you've seen statistics or studies supporting your experience, mention them. But focus on your lived experience; that's what is most valuable. How has Long Covid affected you at home, school, work and more. This forces them to see us as humans, not statistics.

  5. Check accessibility options: If you're struggling with the format, contact the organisers for help. Most consultations can provide alternative submission methods if needed.

     What Happens After You Respond?

     Once the consultation period closes, the responses are analysed and summarised in a report. This report informs decision-making and is often published online. While change can take time, public input is a critical part of the process. It can help keep Long Covid on the agenda. It can put your experience on the public record.

     Key Take-Aways

     Taking part in public consultations about Long Covid can:

     • Help you feel heard and empowered.

     • Highlight gaps in existing services and policies.

     • Influence real change for better healthcare and support.

     To get started, visit Consult.gov.scot and look for active consultations. Your experience matters and your input could make all the difference for you and others living with Long Covid.

     It can help us keep the pressure on the Government with Long Covid Scotland’s demands.

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