MESSAGE FROM DORSET CCG:

We have developed a patient information video which walks people through the process at the BIC so that they can see it before they go: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A-ZZkau6lVs

This will be available on our vaccination service web page (see below) and is on YouTube. We have a huge number of volunteers at the centre who are helping to ensure that visitors are well looked after and reassured as they move through. People’s feedback has generally reflected what a positive contribution the volunteers make and how kind they and the staff are.

We would be happy to arrange a visit for members of DREC to come and see how the centre works so they can reassure others.

The BIC was approved by NHS England as a suitable venue for the vaccination centre. It provides all the facilities we need. All the appropriate measures are in place to keep people safe while in the centre including PPE, cleaning, social distancing, hand gel etc and the venue has been designated COVID-secure.

The vast majority of appointments are complete within an hour for which the parking charge is £1.70 – this is controlled by the BIC. Feedback from people who have been to the centre for their vaccination has been overwhelmingly positive. Drive-through vaccinations are not currently feasible for the vaccines being delivered but this will continue to be considered should this change.

The stickers saying that people have had their vaccination are provided by NHS England (much like the flu stickers) and are available if people want them. If they don’t they can of course say so. Many people have been proudly displaying their stickers.

With regards to the car park – we are not responsible for ensuring social distancing and cleaning in car parks that people might use when they come for their vaccination and the same rules and guidance apply as anywhere else in public areas. However we do have a number of volunteers stationed at the car park to assist people and advise. While you do need to press a button to get your ticket, the pay machines are cashless and payment can be made by waving the card at the pad so there is no further need to touch the machine. We have created additional disabled parking in the car park and are enhancing signage based on feedback from users to ensure it is clear which way people should go. We also have a drop-off point near the Purbeck Hall entrance.

There is more information about getting to the centre etc on our vaccination service page https://www.dorsethealthcare.nhs.uk/covid-19-vaccination-service .

From: Frances Aviss
Senior Public Engagement Lead
Engagement & Communications