When we launched our first vaccination hub in December, the Government’s target for all adults to be offered their first dose by the end of July seemed daunting. Thanks to the efforts of our staff, volunteers and all of you who have championed the importance of the vaccination within your networks, we’re on track to deliver the target. 85% of our adult population have now received their first dose.
We need to recognise this immense achievement, with over 1.4million vaccines delivered. You’ve heard it said before, but this really is the biggest vaccination programme in the history of the NHS. However, this has only happened because of our strong partnership working locally, whether it’s the local councils, Fire, Police, Blood Bikes, voluntary sector, football clubs or local businesses. Thank you, we couldn’t have done it without you.
However we can’t stop yet, there are still too many people who have not come forward for their first dose. Our local target is 90%. It’s ambitious, but we’re determined to ensure no one gets left behind. Every vaccine counts if we’re to reduce hospitalisations and help get back to some sense of normality.
Now in the run up to lifting of COVID-19 restrictions, our efforts remain utterly undimmed. Our teams are focused on getting as many people double vaccinated as fast as they can. We know it’s the second dose that makes all the difference.
That’s because after 19 January there’s a real and worrying risk that while suddenly being able to shake off COVID-19 restrictions, people are caught out and catch this terrible virus. Infection rates are surging and hospitalisations are increasing nationally, including in the younger age groups. Whatever your motivation, whether it is fear of becoming ill or the desire to travel abroad, now is the time to get your vaccine. Don’t leave it too late, if you catch COVID you have to wait 28 days before you can have your vaccine.
Then there’s Long Covid – a very real risk of devastating effects on your body that can endure for years to come. No matter your age, ethnicity or fitness. The evidence is increasingly showing that this is having a long-lasting impact on people’s lives.
For all these reasons, more walk-in and pop-up clinics are opening their doors now and during the weeks ahead. With a range of hours to suit everyone, we’re also calling on workplaces to encourage vaccinations for their staff and volunteers. In support, this week’s bulletin includes a link to a downloadable toolkit designed to encourage people to help protect their workmates and loved ones, by getting jabbed.
A new Public Health England (PHE) report reinforces the statistically stark difference in infection rates between unvaccinated people and the double vaccinated, highlighting the importance of getting that second jab.
We know that demand for our GP practices is unprecedented at the moment. We’d like to thank our GP colleagues who have continued to deliver the vaccination programme alongside day to day business. So far, 80% of our vaccinations locally have been delivered by our GP networks. This is truly remarkable. In response to the unprecedented demand, we’ve launched a survey to understand people’s experiences of access and care in general practice during the pandemic. See below for more details
We’re on a mission this weekend to vaccinate as many people as possible, ahead of the restrictions lifting on Monday. Please join us with this big push over the coming days and help promote the normal clinics and the walk-ins within your communities.
See you on the other side.
Neil Carr Dr Paddy Hannigan
Everyone over the age of 18 is invited to either book their appointment or drop into a walk-in centre to get their vaccine.
