21/01/2026
Adult Long Covid Services
We are sharing an update on Adult Long Covid Services following a review led by the Integrated Care Board (ICB) across the North East and North Cumbria.
What’s changing
The ICB has completed a review of adult Long Covid service provision across the region. As a result, dedicated adult Long Covid services will be decommissioned by March 2026.
Funding for the current specialist Long Covid clinic model will cease after this point.
Why this decision has been made
Demand for specialist Long Covid services has reduced significantly since peak pandemic levels.
The type of symptoms people are experiencing has changed, with most now presenting with fatigue and post-viral or persistent physical symptoms rather than acute Covid-related complications.
There is wide variation in how services are delivered across the region, and many patients are already being supported through existing NHS services.
The review concluded that a symptom led approach, using established services, is the most appropriate and sustainable model.
What this means for patients
Care is not stopping for people with Long Covid symptoms.
New patients with symptoms associated with Long Covid will be supported through existing NHS services, via established referral routes and guided by their presenting symptoms.
Patients who are already receiving care through Long Covid services will continue to be supported. Any changes will be discussed with them directly by their clinical team.
Patients will continue to receive assessment, treatment, and support through:
• Primary care
• Rehabilitation services
• Respiratory services (where clinically indicated)
• Fatigue, chronic fatigue, and persistent physical symptom pathways
Care will be delivered by clinicians with the appropriate skills and expertise, based on the patient's need.
What this means for staff
There is no immediate change to services. Any impact on Trust services will be considered through the 2026/27 financial and planning process.
Further guidance will be shared as implementation plans are confirmed.
How patients will access care in future
Most patients will continue to access care through primary care, with referrals to appropriate services based on symptoms.
This may include rehabilitation services, respiratory services (where clinically indicated), fatigue services, or other relevant pathways.
Key messages for patients
The NHS in the North East and North Cumbria is continuing to support people who have ongoing symptoms after Covid-19.
Long Covid is recognised as a genuine and complex condition. The NHS is changing how care is provided, not whether care is provided. Support will continue based on individual symptoms and needs.
Your care is continuing
We want to reassure you that support for people with Long Covid symptoms is not ending. You will continue to be able to access NHS care based on your individual symptoms and needs.
What is changing
Following a review across the region, the NHS is updating how care is organised for people with Long Covid symptoms.
Over time, some specialist Long Covid clinics will close, and support will instead be provided through existing NHS services. This change will be completed by March 2026.
Why this change is happening
• Fewer people now need specialist Long Covid clinics than earlier in the pandemic.
• Many people are experiencing symptoms such as fatigue, breathlessness, pain, or difficulties with concentration, which can be effectively supported by services that already exist in the NHS.
• This approach helps ensure people are seen by the right clinicians for their symptoms, rather than being limited to a single service.
What this means for you
• If you are currently receiving care, this will continue. Your clinical team will talk to you about any changes and make sure you are supported.
• If you need help in the future, you will still be able to access care through your GP or other NHS services, who can refer you based on your symptoms.
• You will not be left without support as a result of this change.
If you have concerns
If you have questions about your care:
• Speak to your GP, or
• Talk to your current clinical team if you are already under a service.
They will be able to advise you on the best support for your needs.
Thank you for your patience and understanding. The NHS remains committed to supporting people with ongoing symptoms and helping them manage and recover.
Public FAQs
1. Are Long Covid services being stopped?
Dedicated Long Covid services at the remaining Trusts will no longer be funded after March 2026. However, this does not mean care is stopping. People will continue to receive NHS care through existing services based on their symptoms.
2. Will I still be able to get help if I have Long Covid symptoms?
Yes. If you have ongoing symptoms such as fatigue, breathlessness, pain, or brain fog, you will still be able to access NHS care through your GP and other relevant services.
3. Why is the NHS changing this?
Demand has reduced, symptoms have changed, and existing NHS services are better placed to support people based on their symptoms rather than a single diagnosis.
4. Does this mean Long Covid is not taken seriously?
No. Long Covid is recognised as a genuine and complex condition. This change reflects how best to provide consistent, effective care across the region.
5. I’m currently using a Long Covid service – what happens to me?
Your care will continue. Your clinical team will ensure you are supported and discuss any changes with you if alternative services are more appropriate.
6. How will I access care in the future?
Most people will continue to access support through their GP, who can refer to appropriate services based on symptoms.
7. Is this a cost-cutting decision?
The current model no longer provides good value for money. The change allows resources to be used more effectively while ensuring patients continue to receive care.
8. Where can I get more information?
Speak to your GP or clinical team or visit your local NHS website for updates.
