600 children and young people have shared their experiences with education, lockdowns, relationships, home life, and mental health during the pandemic in a research project commissioned by the UK Covid-19 Inquiry. This project is part of the Children and Young People’s Voices research project which took place from April to December 2024.

The research project gathered input from children and young people with disabilities or other health conditions, with over half of the participants being from groups disproportionately impacted by the pandemic, including those with special educational needs, physical disabilities, and those living with Covid-19-related conditions such as Long Covid and PIMS-TS.

The Inquiry commissioned independent research specialists Verian to conduct this project. Topics discussed during interviews included lessons that can be learned for the future. The impact of lockdowns on home and school life, as well as participants’ relationships with friends and family, were also addressed, alongside positive memories of developing new interests and hobbies.

One participant said:

“It was great to reflect on 2020, and all of its ups and downs. A lot has changed between then and now and it has definitely shaped me despite the turmoil: from building new online connections, losing friendships, having a lack of learning and being isolated from family and loved ones. It was very difficult to cope, however looking back on it, I realise it was a great and enjoyable time of my life, and for that I’m very thankful!”

The research will be included as evidence in the Inquiry’s investigation into the impact of the pandemic on children and young people (Module 8), with hearings starting in 2025. The findings will help inform the legal team’s questioning and the Chair’s recommendations for the future to ensure lessons are learned for the next pandemic.

The full research report will be published at the start of the hearings in autumn 2025. The Inquiry will also publish its Every Story Matters record in September 2025, capturing the experiences of 18-25 year olds, as well as parents, carers, teachers, and adults working with young people during the pandemic.