Latest ward data in Solihull shows that 94% of residents over the age of 70 have had their first dose of COVID vaccination. Over 80% of people of all ages who are clinically vulnerable have also taken up the offer of a vaccination so far. Overall the average across the borough for the first five priority groups is 90%.
In line with the national picture, uptake of vaccine is lower in some areas and targeted work is taking place to make sure that everyone is able to get easy access to vaccination, working with community leaders.
Councillor Ian Courts, Leader of Solihull Council said: “It is absolutely astonishing that within a year of the COVID pandemic beginning, we have developed a number of incredibly effective vaccines, and have vaccinated over 18 million in the UK alone. I think I speak on behalf of the whole of Solihull when I thank the scientists, the vaccine producers and the NHS for giving us, not only hope, but something tangible to tackle this dreadful virus.
“The roll-out of the vaccine has once again demonstrated why the NHS is so highly thought of in the UK and is the envy of the world. Our NHS doctors, nurses, GPs, administration staff and volunteers deserve our utmost respect for saving lives in our hospitals and now getting us vaccinated.
“It is really important we get the message out that the vaccine is safe and that people are armed with the facts to make their own mind up - then we get the maximum protection for everyone in the borough”
Solihull resident Christine Johnson, who lives in Chelmsley Wood, praised the vaccine roll out: “I had my vaccine at Bosworth Drive around two weeks ago. I shared my experience with Healthwatch Solihull because I wanted to encourage others to get theirs. I was in and out in no time, and every time one of us is vaccinated, we are that little bit closer to safety. I also wanted to let others know that I had no side effects, and I have felt absolutely fine since my jab. I’m actually excited to get my second dose!”
Tom O’Sullivan, Executive Lead for SolliVac, said “The uptake of the Covid 19 vaccine has been phenomenal across Solihull, and has built on a record breaking flu vaccination campaign earlier in the winter. Choosing to accept a vaccine not only protects you, it protects those around you too.
“We are pleased with the momentum we have built while rolling out first doses, and we have now secured allocations for second doses to start from next week too. Over the coming days we will be inviting eligible patients to book in, you don’t need to call us, we will call you. That said, we do want to encourage anyone that has been called, but chosen not to take the vaccine, to get in touch if they’ve changed their mind, it’s not too late!"
Alka Sahnan, Manager of Prince of Wales Nursing Home and Chairperson of Managers Forum, said: “I’ve had my vaccination as I know how vital it is to the sector I work in. Getting a jab was really straightforward, and I’ve had no side effects. I have encouraged all my staff to get their jab and would encourage anyone who hasn’t had it yet to have one, as it not only protects us, but even more importantly it protects our care home residents.”
- The vaccine ward data can be found here.
- For more information on the vaccine programme click here.
- For an easy read guide to the Covid-19 vaccination click here.
- Healthwatch Solihull is an independent organisation set up to champion the views of patients and social care users in Solihull, with the goal of making services better and improving health and wellbeing. They want to hear about your views, needs and experiences to help Solihull get the best possible health and care. Call 0808 196 3912 or email enquiries@healthwatchsolihull.org.uk