While we steadily continue to progress on the way out of the national lockdown restrictions, in Humber, Coast and Vale we remain cautiously optimistic as we make good progress with vaccinating against coronavirus.
Thanks to a combined effort of primary care teams, volunteers, vaccination centres, hospital hubs and local pharmacies, we have already vaccinated two thirds of the eligible population in our region with the first dose, hitting the mark of one million vaccinations, which is a significant milestone.
We continue to offer the vaccine to over 50s, unpaid carers and those at high risk from COVID-19. If you’re in cohorts 1-9 and haven’t had your jab yet, please book it without delay. You can contact your GP practice or use the national booking system by visiting www.nhs.uk/covid-vaccination. Those who cannot do it online can call a free 119 number, anytime between 7am and 11pm, seven days a week.
There is a vaccine for everyone eligible across Humber Coast and Vale and we want to support everyone to take up their vaccine
Clinical teams in Humber, Coast and Vale have been working above and beyond the call of duty, vaccinating thousands of people every week. Many people who come to get vaccinated are incredibly grateful. All healthcare staff really appreciate the positive feedback they receive from the members of the public. To quickly mobilise our teams and carry on vaccinating on top of ensuring other services remain open and accessible was not an easy task.
We have been keen to share positive experiences of people who have had the vaccine. We recognise that for some people it may feel daunting to attend an appointment, especially if they’ve been shielding at home for over a year. I can assure you that all clinics are organised in a socially distanced way to ensure staff and patients’ safety, with regular cleaning in place.
I am also mindful that the recent media coverage about the vaccine could make some people hesitant to book their appointment. There is a lot of information about the safety and effectiveness of both vaccines currently used in the UK. Both have been thoroughly tested and researched. Please check your facts using reputable sources of information, such as the NHS website. Social media do not always offer an accurate picture.
And another plea is to make sure you attend your second dose appointment, this is important. If, for whatever reason, you can’t make it, please cancel it and rebook. We will be able to offer any unfilled slots to those who are waiting.
Rolling out the vaccination programme in our region is a collective effort of all partners in the Humber, Coast and Vale Health and Care Partnership. This first phase proves what can be achieved in health and social care when we support each other in a shared goal. And as we move on to offer the vaccine to other age groups, it will be paramount to continue to share the learning and good practice to reach out to vulnerable groups and anyone in our communities who struggle to engage with health services.