Praise for all involved with Covid-19 vaccine roll-out in Northumberland

Local leaders have praised the work of Northumberland health and care workers, local authority staff and volunteers who have pulled out all the stops to support the NHS’s vaccination programme.
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Almost every person over 70 in the county has now been vaccinated as well as most care home residents and frontline health and social care staff.

Cllr Glen Sanderson, leader of Northumberland County Council, said: “We really cannot underestimate the enormous effort it has taken to get this huge undertaking underway with staff going over and above to ensure we get this vital protection to our most vulnerable residents.

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"Volunteers have also played a crucial role. We have a fantastic community that steps up to help when needed, and we have seen this first-hand throughout this crisis.

Retired doctor James Mitchell receives his Covid-19 vaccine in Berwick.Retired doctor James Mitchell receives his Covid-19 vaccine in Berwick.
Retired doctor James Mitchell receives his Covid-19 vaccine in Berwick.

“The strong start to the roll-out of the vaccination programme in Northumberland is hugely positive news during a difficult time and it is wonderful to see so many people embracing this and attending their appointments to have the vaccine.”

Dr Graham Syers, clinical chair of Northumberland Clinical Commissioning Group, paid tribute to colleagues in health and social care, and those from other agencies.

He said: “GP practices across Northumberland have been phenomenal in organising and delivering the vaccine programme and have demonstrated exactly what can be achieved when we all pull together.”

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“Moving forward to when we start vaccinating the next priority groups, the first of which is over 65s, people will be contacted when it’s their turn to be vaccinated and given all the information they need. They will be contacted by their GP practice to arrange a vaccination appointment. It’s also really important that people do not turn up to their appointments early, to allow for continued social distancing.

“Sadly, we have also been made aware of scams that are being carried out across the area. You will only be contacted by your GP or the national booking service to invite you for the vaccine. If you are ever unsure about any letters or correspondence, speak to your local GP to double check.”

Dr Alistair Blair, medical director at Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, said: “It is absolutely vital that we all continue to follow the current guidance.”

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