Centre team help keep jabs flowing
STOCKPORT council is highlighting the work done by vaccination centre volunteers who have helped deliver jabs to residents across the borough.
The volunteers have helped with keeping the one-way system flowing, directing patients, ensuring everyone stays safe while at the vaccine centres and, of course, by making that all important cup of tea.
Donna Littlewood is a volunteer steward at Hazel Grove vaccination centre, which administers, on average, more than 2,300 jabs a day.
She said: “During the pandemic, I found myself with plenty of spare time. I was keen to get involved with some volunteering to put this time to good use.
“My role was to work in the car park, helping people find available spaces, keeping them moving safely around the area and directing them to the centre entrance.
“Of course, I also provided a bit of entertainment with my dancing to keep warm! It feels great to be a small part of the national vaccine effort.”
Another volunteer is Tony Moss, who has been volunteering at Lowfield Road Surgery in Shaw Heath, which covers around seven GP practices in the area. He has often worked Bank Holidays and back-to-back shifts in the week.
“I’m a bit of a jack of all trades,” said Tony.
“In my role I have helped with the marshalling outdoors, as well as assisting with the queuing system and answering any queries visitors might have.
“I have also been staffing the exit of the building and keeping the vaccination rooms clean and tidy. It’s a really rewarding role and I would happily recommend it.”
Kat Newland is another Stockport resident who has been giving her time to help out at the Heatons Medical Practices.
Originally a volunteer for the Royal Voluntary
Service and Healthwatch Stockport, Kat now does two shifts a week at the Heatons Medical Practices.
She said: “It’s been amazing working with local people and helping patients of all ages get out of the house for a few hours.
“I would highly recommend volunteering to anyone that has a few spare hours. Not only is it very rewarding, it helps the NHS staff be where they need to be – vaccinating the people of Stockport.”
Coun Amanda Peers, cabinet member for inclusive neighbourhoods at Stockport Council, said:
“I’d like to extend a huge thank you to all our volunteers who give up their time to work tirelessly for others.” ●●YOU can register your interest in becoming a volunteer at a vaccination centre via the new hub website or by calling 0161 074 0753.