‘Positive feedback’ on Northern Trust’s mobile Covid jabs team

Members heard that “feedback from the service has been really positive”.

To date, 1,715 housebound patients in the Trust have received the vaccine with vaccinators reporting that patients have been “so receptive” with “many people not having seen anyone for a long time”.

Ashley Ramsay, the Trust’s assistant community general manager, said: “For the team, it has been one of the most satisfying experiences of their career.”

She also reported that the vaccination programme began on December 14 in nursing and care homes  with plans to administer the first dose to all care home residents and staff during a 10-day period.

She reported that first and second vaccines have been administered to most residents and staff, an uptake of 11,889 people, which she said, has resulted in a reduction in the number of positive cases in care homes.

Fifty supported living schemes have also been participating with second doses being completed last week.

To date, 991 vaccinations have been administered to residents and staff in supported living schemes.

Seventy-two first vaccines have been administered in 13 hostels and shelters.

Board member William Graham said: “What you have achieved is nothing short of astounding. Everyone in society is forever in your debt. It is unbelievable what has been achieved.

Glenn Houston commented: “I just think this whole effort has been absolutely tremendous. Those involved have to be commended. It is a phenomenal challenge.

He also asked about the supply of vaccines.

Owen Harkin, Director of Finance and Estates, replied that there is a “high degree of confidence” over supply and after a “lull” anticipated during the next couple of weeks, this will “settle down” and there will be a “steady flow thereafter”.

“I am confident that we will have everybody vaccinated by the early summer,” he stated.

Northern Trust chairman Bob McCann commented: “You have brought such hope to people after such a dismal year. You are protecting the most vulnerable people in our society.”

Michelle Weir, Local Democracy Reporter

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