Online booking of appointments was due to open today so over-80s can receive the Covid vaccine.
And Age Concern acting chairman Ben Shenton said the charity would provide assistance for members who get ‘stuck’ navigating the process, and even help them get to the vaccination centre if necessary.
‘Age Concern will help assist members to get up to the vaccination centre if they contact Age Concern directly, and we will also help out with anyone who has difficulties with the online booking,’ said Mr Shenton. ‘We won’t be taking everyone up there – it’s very much if members do get stuck and do need assistance, then we can probably help if they get in touch.’
He added that encouraging a community-based approach would help avoid ‘missing out’ any elderly Islanders seeking to be vaccinated.
‘I think it’s probably quite prudent, in some respects. What we have got to make sure is that people make their own decisions about whether they want to have the vaccine or not.
‘It is important that people do have the freedom of thought that they decide whether they want it. Obviously it is recommended by the government and if neighbours, friends, Age Concern or anyone else can help, then it will assist in getting as many people vaccinated who want to be.
‘By doing it this way and getting the whole community involved there is probably less chance of missing out Islanders. It turns the vaccination programme very much into a community initiative and everyone can assist in making sure we look after the elderly and the vulnerable on the Island.’
Vaccination programme lead Becky Sherrington said: ‘Our staff will be working hard to ensure Islanders are vaccinated safely and in priority order, and so we ask that only those aged 80 or over come forward,’ she said. ‘This will help keep the programme running smoothly and will help lead us forward to some sense of normality.’
lTo contact Age Concern Jersey use the freephone number 0800 735 0345 or email info@ageconcern.je. Membership of Age Concern is free and application forms are available online at ageconcern.je or by calling the freephone number.
