Image demonstrating Praise for all involved with Covid-19 vaccine rollout in Northumberland  

Praise for all involved with Covid-19 vaccine rollout 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 most challenging nationally led vaccination programme in the history of the NHS. 
  
The county began rolling out the Covid-19 vaccination programme in the middle of December 2020 and is currently leading the way after vaccinating tens of thousands of people. Now almost every person over 70 in the county has been vaccinated as well as most care home residents and frontline health and social care staff. 
 
Glen Sanderson Leader of Northumberland County Council praised the efforts of everyone who has been involved with the vaccine rollout:  
“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. 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.  
  
“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 Northumberland CCG said: “I’d like to pay tribute to colleagues in health and social care, and those from other agencies who are absolutely committed to the programme. 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. Thank you to each and every one who has played a part.”   
   
“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.  
“Sadlywe 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 NHS Foundation Trust saidIt is absolutely vital that we all continue to follow the current guidance which includes staying at home wherever possible, wearing a mask whenever you are in a public space and washing your hands frequently. We all have our part to play in keeping one another safe, and of course, protecting our colleagues in the NHS too so they remain safe and well to look after our local communities.  
  
The NHS remains dedicated to continuing the rollout of the Covid-19 vaccine and reminds residents that they will receive notification from the NHS when the time comes for them to receive the vaccine. To find out more about the vaccination programme please visit nhs.uk.  
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