Oldham Council and local GPs are teaming up to help the homeless.
Following the roll-out of the Oxford COVID vaccine just yesterday, Oldham Council has confirmed that they will be prioritising the homeless over the coming weeks and months – ensuring those with no home are able to get the vaccine as soon as possible, along with the other priority groups who are already receiving the vaccine. The move aims to help stop the spread of the disease within the community, as well as help those who are most in need.
Councillor Zahid Chauhan, Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care, said: “Unfortunately Oldham, like towns and cities across the country does have people who are homeless – many through no fault of their own.
“People living on the streets, or those who have no permanent address, are some of the most vulnerable people in society and need help and support. Because they live on the streets they can also come into contact with a large number of people, which means if they have Coronavirus there is a big risk they could pass it on to others. That’s why it is important they are offered the vaccine.”
Dr Salim Mohammed added: “We’ve been vaccinating people in Oldham over the last few weeks, starting with the most at-risk group, the over 80s. It’s important that we continue to vaccinate those most at risk from COVID-19, and this includes people impacted by homelessness.
“We are in the process of planning how we can vaccinate this group. They are already some of the most vulnerable people in our society and it’s important their risk of contracting COVID is reduced.”
Since the Pfizer vaccine rolled out back in December, Oldham has vaccinated more than 3,700 residents, with more set to receive their jabs following the roll-out of the Oxford vaccine.