Thousands of people across County Durham who are unable to leave their homes, are receiving their Covid-19 vaccination thanks to the district nursing teams from County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust. Malcolm Walker, associate director operations for community services, said “Not everyone is able to attend one of the vaccination centres set up across the County. We’ve worked with GP practices – and Durham County Council as part of the County Durham Care Partnership – to ensure people in the top priority groups, as identified by the national Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI), are able to have their vaccine as quickly as possible, in the safety and comfort of their own home.”
“Our district nursing teams are based in local community hubs and, as such, already know and are involved in caring for many of the people now being vaccinated. Most are in high risk age categories and many have been limiting their contact with loved ones for almost a year. Having the vaccine will help protect them and is an emotional experience for many. Older patients remember a time before national vaccination programmes and are incredibly appreciative and grateful. It’s humbling for our staff but rewarding to be involved in something so positive. So far, we’ve vaccinated over 3,500 people in their homes.”
