The UK Covid-19 Inquiry has launched Every Story Matters, inviting everyone to share their pandemic experiences.

Baroness Heather Hallett, Chair of the Inquiry, said:

“The pandemic affected every single person in the UK and, in many cases, continues to have a lasting impact on lives. Yet every experience is unique. By sharing the personal impact, the pandemic had on you, your life and your loved ones, you can help me and the Inquiry’s legal team to shape my recommendations so that the UK is better prepared in the future. The scale of the pandemic was unprecedented, but no-one’s story is the same as yours, so please help me understand the full picture by sharing your story. Every single story will matter.”

Every Story Matters aims to support investigations by providing evidence on the human impact of the pandemic. It allows people to share their experiences without formal evidence or public hearings. These stories will be anonymised and included in themed reports to identify trends and contribute to the Inquiry's findings.

The Inquiry seeks widespread participation, working with organisations like Age UK and Marie Curie to ensure diverse representation. Nearly 6,000 stories have been shared so far.

People can share their experiences through the Inquiry’s Every Story Matters online form. 

Alternatives, such as paper versions and a telephone number, will be available later this year. The Inquiry team will also visit communities across the UK to gather stories in person.