There continues to be extensive news coverage about the COVID-19 Omicron variant, and increasing concerns around the impact of the rising infection rates among some of the most vulnerable in our communities. The Council, in partnership with colleagues in the HSCP and NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde, has a key role to play in supporting efforts to expand vaccination availability and to protect those individuals and families who have to isolate in line with current requirements.
The COVID-19 vaccination booster programme is being accelerated in light of the Omicron variant and this is being facilitated through additional clinics and extended clinic hours. The Council and its partners are resourcing Vaccination Clinics to provide access to COVID-19 vaccines and boosters for all East Dunbartonshire residents who are eligible.
As part of our winter planning and the recently announced increased level of vaccinations required to be delivered daily, we are thinking ahead about how we can make sure that this vital service can continue to be delivered, should winter illnesses affect staffing levels, and we are calling for volunteers from the staff community.
As a Vaccination Clinic Steward you will assist in the management of queues at clinics, supporting people in their journey through the clinic, wiping down as required and otherwise supporting the effective operation of the clinic venue. We are looking for volunteers to support this activity, if required, during the festive period and beyond.
Clinics are operating most days and will be working extended hours, so there is flexibility for you to volunteer on days or shifts around any other commitments you may have.
We are also looking for volunteers to assist the Council’s work in making and receiving calls in support of those individuals and families who have to isolate in line with current requirements. This involves making or receiving calls, ascertaining whether any support is required and providing contact details for the relevant organisations or otherwise signposting. This work will be carried out from home and as with the vaccination clinics, can be undertaken flexibly to accommodate other commitments.
Volunteers will be reimbursed at the rate for the volunteered role or their substantive contractual rate, whichever is the higher, and normal overtime rules for enhanced rates will apply for all grades.
If you would be interested in receiving more information regarding the Vaccination Clinics, please contact Fiona Mackay (fiona.mackay@eastdunbarton.gov.uk), in the first instance.
If you would be interested in receiving more information on providing Isolation Support Call support please contact Dee Horne (dee.horne@eastdunbarton.gov.uk) in the first instance.
Thank you
Ann Davie
Depute Chief Executive
Friday 17 December 2021