NEW VACCINATION sites are set to open from Tuesday in an effort to boost the rate of people receiving the crucial jab.

With the new centres ready to open, Lancashire and South Cumbria’s clinical vaccination lead has urged eligible people across Blackburn with Darwen who have not yet had their Covid-19 jab to come forward without delay.

The call, from Jane Scattergood, Covid-19 Vaccination Director for Lancashire and South Cumbria, comes as extra doses arrive in the area next week.

Ms Scattergood said: "The NHS is working closely with all its partners on a rapid response to the virus in order to protect our residents.

"We have secured extra vaccines for everyone who is eligible and made it as easy as possible for them to come forward to be vaccinated.

"People will have more opportunities to book their vaccination on a date and a place that suits them, no matter where they live.

"As long as you are eligible, please come forward and book your vaccine as quickly as you can."

Vaccination of residents is according to a priority list, as set out by the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI), based on age and vulnerability of people and the risk of them becoming seriously ill and dying from Covid-19.

The current criteria is:

  • Aged 38 and over
  • Aged 18 and over with any underlying health conditions
  • Aged 18 and over AND living, caring or working with anyone with underlying health conditions
  • Health and Social Care staff
  • Any carers – paid or unpaid. You will not be asked for proof as unpaid carers are eligible.

The new sites are hyper local to Blackburn with Darwen for the convenience of local residents but anyone who is eligible can book into the appointments for their first dose.

They include:

  • Mobile 5 Bay Clinic with disabled access delivered by articulated lorry, Penny Street, Blackburn, BB1 6HQ
  • Pop up clinic in Revidge Fold Church, Shear Brow, BB1 8DS.

The sites will be open 8am until 8pm from Tuesday, May 18 to Thursday, May 20, with more details about extra clinics at the weekend and next week to be released very soon.

Bookings can be made via the Lancashire and South Cumbria Vaccination Programme website and other venues will come online throughout the week.

Opening hours of existing vaccination sites including Blackburn Cathedral and the Royal Blackburn Hospital Hub also are also being extended, with details to be confirmed shortly.

As well as securing extra first doses, the NHS is continuing to give second doses when they are due.

A huge thank you to all our staff and partners who are working hard on the delivery of the vaccination programme and are helping to protect our residents and their loved ones.”

To book appointments, go to: https://www.healthierlsc.co.uk/CovidVaccination/blackburn.