P088 Impact of COVID-19 and cocooning on employment of people with cystic fibrosis

Objectives: The aim of this study is to examine cocooning rates of persons with cystic fibrosis (PWCF) during the COVID-19 pandemic working from home and employer attitudes. Methods: A cross-sectional survey jointly developed by University College Dublin and Cystic Fibrosis Ireland (CFI) research teams was made available to complete using SmartSurvey UK. The survey was advertised widely by CFI via social media (Twitter, Instagram, Facebook), the CFI website and through CFI PWCF WhatsApp groups. Results: Approximately half (50.8%) of PWCF cocooned. Most participants spent their day while cocooning performing exercises, doing household chores, and watching TV. Most of the participants ordered groceries/medications online, whereas smaller numbers had them delivered by family or friends. Amongst the participants who worked (46.2%), 87.2% (n = 48) worked from home during the pandemic. More PWCF aged <35 years (9.6%) worked onsite as compared those 35 years or over (1.9%). 95% employers were sympathetic for the participants who cocooned while working from home. However, approximately one-third of the employers were considered unsympathetic to PWCF who were not working due to cocooning. Employers were equally sympathetic to females and males and to younger and older PWCF. Majority of participants had access to excellent quality of internet service during pandemic, but this differed by urban/rural divide. Conclusion: Some PWCF faced challenges in relation to work while cocooning due to the pandemic risk. While Ireland provided pandemic unemployment payment assistance to those who lost jobs, this did not fully compensate most people. The urban/rural difference noted reflects national broadband rollout delays. Delivery of essentials at home and working from home can be effective ways to mitigate risks and therefore more provisions should be made in this regard for PWCF.