It is widely recognised that some people are suffering from long Covid. Symptoms can include fatigue and problems with memory and concentration (“brain fog”). ACAS has produced advice for employers and employees on how to deal with this. This can be found here
It sets out what an employer should do when workers are suffering from long Covid and when they are off sick as a result. It also considers whether long Covid could be a disability for the purposes of the Equality Act 2010. If it is, an employer is under a duty not to discriminate and to make reasonable adjustments.
Due to this being a new illness, it is too early to say for sure whether long Covid is a disability. It is possible that it could be due to its ability to affect a person’s day-to-day activities and that it can last for a significant period of time. ACAS’ advice is to proceed as if it is a disability and make adjustments for the worker if they are needed and they are reasonable for the business to make. We agree that this is good practice.
12th May 2021