Over 45,000 vaccines delivered at Foyle Arena in Derry and other Trust hubs

The confirmation comes as the vaccination programme expanded to those with underlying health conditions and carers aged 18 and over.

The vaccine rollout is being delivered by the Western Trust through three regional vaccination centres located in Derry, Omagh and Enniskillen and is part of the wider programme involving the Trust, Councils, Multi-Agency groups and GP Practices.

This latest expansion of the programme sees the start of a major vaccination to include unpaid carers who are aged 18 and over and are the main carer of an elderly or disabled person, whose welfare may be at risk if you as carer fall ill.

Commenting on the welcome broadening of the target groups, Western Trust Director of Human Resources and Vaccine Programme Lead, Ann McConnell, said: “The expansion of the Vaccination Programme to include carers and more of those with underlying health conditions is a very welcome development in our ongoing roll out of the Covid-19 vaccine across the Trust area. It is vitally important that we keep up our fantastic momentum and move through the different groups as quickly and efficiently as possible and I would encourage everyone who is eligible to make their appointment as soon as possible.

“We have a number of slots available immediately at both our Enniskillen and Foyle centres, so don’t delay, book your slot as soon as you can.”

Carers Coordinator with the Western Trust, Cathy Magowan, said: “All carers attending the vaccination centres are required to bring ID with confirmation of their age and it is helpful that they also bring their Health and Care Number (this number appears on prescription medication and is on the medical card and most hospital appointment letters).”

In addition, anyone over 70 who has not yet had their first dose from their GP will now have the option to book a vaccination appointment at Foyle Arena.

GPs will be making vaccination available to more medically vulnerable people and their carers, including people aged 18 plus who have underlying medical conditions but who did not receive a shielding letter. This extended target group is expected to largely mirror those who receive the winter flu vaccine each year because of their medical conditions. There is no need to contact your GP as they will invite people to receive the vaccine based on their vaccine supply. This phase of the programme will take several weeks to complete. GPs will also remain focussed on completing vaccinations for the 70 plus age group.

Booking will be available to carers aged 18 and over and who are in receipt of Carer’s Allowance or Carer’s Credit; are a registered care home Care Partner; are the main carer of an elderly or disabled person. It is anticipated that carers in lower age groups can be assured that the age eligibility will expanded in the coming days and weeks.

Those within the Western Trust area can also call the local booking line on 028 7161 0753.