12 JAN 2022 · Finally, Jenny and Kirsty spend some time discussing the possibility that change is needed to enable a return to work – for example, redeployment or moving into another line of work. They talk about ‘leaving work well’ and making sure that you know the processes to ensure that you are protected in this journey. From their own experience, Jenny and Kirsty talk about finding hope and positive growth in these challenging experiences.

11 JAN 2022 · In this discussion, Kirsty and Jenny talk about how you can make adjustments to the way you work, for example – how long you work for at a time and what type of environment you work in. Kirsty explains some of the challenges of being self-employed and makes suggestions for arranging your work to suit your needs.

10 JAN 2022 · In this interview, Jenny and Kirsty explain some of the processes involved in returning to work. They share top tips and avenues of support that can help you navigate this journey.

8 JAN 2022 · In this episode, we discuss some of the impacts of Long COVID that may feel private and may make you feel particularly vulnerable. Kirsty and Jenny provide some advice about how you can make decisions about who you tell about these things, when, and how. RESOURCES: Vocational Rehabilitation Association career advice: https://vrassociationuk.com/resources-for-individuals/ and via this link: https://www.evenbreak.co.uk/en Chronic illness Inclusion: https://chronicillnessinclusion.org.uk mention a link to specialist help for disabled people to find paid work: https://astriid.org/about/ TUC (help with finding a union): https://www.tuc.org.uk/join-a-union

8 JAN 2022 · This interview explains the ‘Fit Note’ (rather than the ‘Sick Note’). Using this well is valuable when discussing whether or not you are ready to return to work with your doctor and your employer. RESOURCES: The Allied Health Professionals Health and Work report: http://www.ahpf.org.uk/files/AHP%20Health%20and%20Work%20report%202021.pdf Access to work for workers including self-employed (services provided can be for both physical and mental health support in the workplace) https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/access-to-work-factsheet https://www.remploy.co.uk/employers/mental-health-and-wellbeing/workplace-mental-health-support-service-employers Equality and Human Rights Commission (provides details on the Equalities Act 2010): https://www.equalityhumanrights.com/en/equality-act/equality-act-2010The Equality, advisory and support service with website and confidential helpline for workers to discuss concerns for example, about disability discrimination in the workplace: https://www.equalityadvisoryservice.com The Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (ACAS) with confidential helpline and website for workers: Long COVID – advice for employers and employees: https://www.acas.org.uk/long-covid Pomodoro technique (Time management strategy that may be helpful for some people): https://francescocirillo.com/pages/pomodoro-technique

7 JAN 2022 · This interview focuses on the early stages of being unwell and unable to work. There are risks of returning to work too soon – Jenny and Kirsty share their own experiences and advice. RESOURCES: Four videos about preparing to return to work by a team of occupational therapists at University Hospitals of Derby and Burton NHS Foundation Trust: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLfPD5ilcfEbit6R2OgezYD9YeNvnniSyb Energy conservation RCOT How to conserve your energy. Practical advice for people during and after having COVID-19:https://www.rcot.co.uk/conserving-energy.

6 JAN 2022 · Jenny and Kirsty are both living with Long Covid and are Occupational Therapists with specific expertise in relation to vocational rehabilitation and employment. They have valuable personal and professional insights to share in relation to when to return to work, your rights, how to manage the process while looking after your own wellbeing, and what you can do if you need to make changes to your employment. RESOURCES: The Society of Occupational Medicine: COVID-19 return to work guide: For manager: https://www.som.org.uk/COVID-19_return_to_work_guide_for_managers.pdf COVID-19 return to work guide For recovering workers: https://www.som.org.uk/COVID19_return_to_work_guide_for_recovering_workers.pdf UK Government Advice: The Fit Note: guidance for patients and employees: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/the-fit-note-a-guide-for-patients-and-employees/the-fit-note-guidance-for-patients-and-employees Getting the most out of the fit note: guidance for GPs: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/fit-note-guidance-for-gps/getting-the-most-out-of-the-fit-note-guidance-for-gps Getting the most out of the fit note: guidance for employers and line managers: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/fit-note-guidance-for-employers-and-line-managers/getting-the-most-out-of-the-fit-note-guidance-for-employers-and-line-managers#possible-changes

5 JAN 2022 · Linda is a Senior Lecturer in Occupational Therapy at Queen Margaret University. In this recording, she focuses on support, actions and resources that she has found valuable in her journey with Long Covid. RESOURCES: UK Government info on financial help if you're disabled: https://www.gov.uk/financial-help-disabled

4 JAN 2022 · In this introduction recording, Professor Bulley talks to Dr Linda Renton about her experience living with Long Covid and explains the background to this podcast series which was developed in response to research insights from the ‘Support After Covid Study,’ carried out between May 2021 and June 2021.