Kate writes a bi-weekly column for the Burton Mail. This column was originally featured in the 14th January print edition.
This week the Government launched its Vaccine Delivery Plan and I have assurances from Ministerial colleagues that continual vaccine supply is on its way to people across Burton and Uttoxeter. It is so heart-warming to hear so many stories of hope from those who already have taken part in the biggest immunisation in our country’s history.
With a target of at least two million vaccinations every week, tens of millions of people will be immunised over the coming months at more than 2,700 sites across our country, and I am glad further centres in GPs and pharmacies will open in areas shortly.
While we are one step closer to tackling the coronavirus pandemic – and we must take the necessary steps to do so – I am proud to see the enthusiasm from the army of willing volunteers offering their assistance to help in the rollout.
Alongside our great volunteers, our Armed Forces are also working closely with the NHS in providing logistical support and experience to the health service. This, highlighting the co-operative efforts of our precious public services, is testament to the cooperation and community spirit that these difficult times have.
The momentous effort that is currently underway at Burton Albion Football Club at the Pirelli Stadium highlights these efforts across the whole of the country, and I thank everyone that has been involved in that operation already.
The further roll out of the vaccine for Covid-19 will continue to provide the clear route out of this pandemic, alleviating the pressures seen our health services and a return to normality. We must continue for the time being however to follow public health guidance in the interest of protecting both lives and livelihood of our friends and our loved ones, and also our great businesses that are so important to our local economy. Taking the steps to do so, and with the vaccine programme acceleration, we lean closer to seeing some sense of normality as we approach the spring and summer months.
By working together and all playing our part, I have renewed confidence in our ability to overcome this dreadful virus. I feel sure that the effective use of both our Armed Forces and the army of willing volunteers can only spur us on to getting back to normal sooner. I urge, therefore, that we continue to follow the guidelines and Stay at Home to protect the NHS and Save Lives.
