New Chair of Long Covid SOS places lived experience at the heart of governance

Long Covid SOS is pleased to announce the start of a new chapter placing lived experience at the heart of the charity’s leadership and governance. Volunteer and experienced charity leader Sarah Barley-McMullen has been appointed Chair, alongside two new trustees.

Following a period of stabilisation after the sad loss of co-founder and CEO Ondine Sherwood, Chair Dr Lucy Moore stepped down at the end of her term in April 2026. Longstanding trustees Karen Matthews and Jo Clift also completed their terms of service. The Board and volunteers extend their sincere gratitude for their dedication and contributions over the years.

Sarah Barley-McMullen said:

"It is a privilege to step into a leadership role with such a well-respected, patient-focused charity. Long Covid SOS has always been driven by the voices and experiences of people living with Long Covid, and that will remain at the heart of everything we do. Too many people are still unheard, unsupported, and without answers when Long Covid turns their lives upside down."

Helen Lunt Davies, a long-term volunteer, has also been appointed to the Board of Trustees, bringing extensive design and communications expertise alongside lived experience. Kim Horstmanshof, who has supported the charity’s recent Covid Inquiry work, joins as Deputy Chair, contributing her leadership and governance experience as well as lived experience.

These appointments further strengthen the Board, building on the addition of experienced accountant, tax adviser, and trustee Caroline Stewart, who joined as Treasurer in November 2025.

Barley-McMullen added:

"This next chapter is about moving forward with clarity and determination—strengthening our voice, collaborating where it matters most, and pushing for the recognition, research, and rights the Long Covid community deserves."

More information about the Long Covid SOS Board can be found at:

longcovidsos.org/trustees