Vaccine volunteers ‘invaluable’ in the fight against COVID-19

Vaccine volunteers ‘invaluable’ in the fight against COVID-19

Saint Catherine’s ‘vaccine volunteers’ have been enjoying playing a key role in the fight against COVID-19.

Around 150 volunteers have been working in shifts at the Rugby Club in Scarborough, which is currently being used as a COVID-19 vaccination centre by eight Scarborough and Filey GP practices.

With up to 2,000 people a day receiving their vaccinations at the site, Saint Catherine’s volunteers have been acting as marshals to support the clinical staff – and the partnership is going extremely well.

Central Healthcare’s Matt Hudson, vaccination centre duty manager, said: “Having the volunteers here is invaluable. They really helping to take the pressure off NHS services.

“They are really good at what they do and they’re finding it rewarding. The key thing is that people don’t see them as any different to the staff – they are just an integral part of the clinic.”

Sue Mabbott, a nurse from Central Healthcare, said: “People are saying how efficient it is and we’ve had lots of nice comments about staff and volunteers and how kind they are.

“People say they have really been treated with kindness and respect. Some of these people have not left home in a very long time.

“It’s a massive help to us having the volunteers here – they are doing an amazing job.”

Here is what some of the vaccine volunteers had to say about the experience.

Jenny Hindle said: “I’m really enjoying it. It’s good to feel part of something and see people more positive and uplifted. The process is so efficient and very thorough, with good communication if anyone has any questions.”

Andrea Mason said: “I absolutely love being a marshal at the Rugby Club. It’s so well organised and everyone is so happy, helpers and the people coming for the vaccination. A friend of mine had hers and was quite scared beforehand. I reassured her and she rang me with nothing but praise about her experience. And everyone wants a sticker!”

Tony Bates, who volunteers with his wife Paula, said: “We are really delighted to be able to play a very small part in this epic volunteering task.  We congratulate Saint Catherine’s for their important role, all so very well planned and delivered perfectly.  Roll on the next session.”

Ray Siddle said: “It’s great to hear that Saint Catherine’s volunteering programme is being utilised to the maximum by the Local Practice Groups.

“Speaking for Gina my wife and myself, all we can both say is that we’re both thoroughly enjoying the experience of volunteering at the rugby club and meeting the public while marshalling and also getting to know our fellow volunteers, as well as the hardworking NHS staff from the practices.”

Liam Symons-Pullen said: “It’s is a pleasure and a privilege to be part of Saint Catherine’s volunteers. It is just amazing to be helping out at the vaccine site and to see how many people can come together and fight COVID-19.”

Kate Arton said: “Everyone is so kind, helpful and supportive. I thoroughly enjoyed my afternoon. I also noticed how grateful everyone was who got their vaccine. It was lovely to be a part of it all. The medical staff and people who support them are amazing. I know we are all extremely grateful!”

Tracy Calcraft, Income and Business Services Director at Saint Catherine’s, said: “Saint Catherine’s has been delighted to work in partnership with the local Primary Care Networks and be able to support the vital vaccination effort. Our volunteers have jumped at the chance to be involved and we couldn’t be prouder of everyone who is able to help. Thanks to all the volunteers and local business who have supported with treats as well.

“I have also personally helped out and found the experience so rewarding and inspiring – the organisation and set-up from the PCN teams is brilliant and runs so smoothly. Being able to vaccinate on this scale out of a sports hall is no mean feat!”