Since the Prime Minister announced an expansion of the Covid booster jab rollout, people across the country have been booking boosters and queueing for jabs.

In Dorset, it's been a challenge for some people to book their boosters for a few weeks.

In November we reported how some were being sent to neighbouring counties and appointments not being available for weeks.

But what now for the booster vaccine programme in Dorset following Sunday's announcement?

Here's what we know.

Booster rollout WILL expand

People in charge of the programme in Dorset say they are 'pulling out all the stops' to expand it.

The NHS have said all possibilities are being considered.

This could consist of mobile sites, trucks, stadiums, leisure centres being used.

Dr Andy Rutland, local GP and clinical lead for the COVID-19 vaccination programme in Dorset, said more people will be given the opportunity to get boosted in the coming weeks.

Opening hours at existing centres is being extended, pop-ups planned and increased capacity at GP surgeries - see more below.

New walk-in centres?

YES!

Last night, Dorset health officials announced a new vaccine clinic at the TA Centre in Wallisdown Road in Poole.

It will be able to administer 400 jabs a day. And will run from 10am until 2pm on Wednesday.

Here's what you need to know

What else is happening with jab centres?

A Dorset vaccination programme spokesperson said: “We are increasing the operating hours of our existing vaccination centres at King’s Park Hospital, Bournemouth and Vespasian House, Dorchester which are bookable via the NHS national booking system.

"We are also planning additional pop-up centres around the county, which could offer booked appointments and walk-in availability.

“Colleagues in primary care and the local acute hospitals are also increasing their capacity so that they can help deliver 1,000s more jabs every day.

“Please bear with us while we get the arrangements in place which enable us to deliver this ambitious programme. We know that some people have not been able to book a local appointment and we are working hard to increase the slots available. Thank you for your patience and please keep checking the system as appointments are being added all the time.”

Read more: 

Be patient

That's what we're being asked to do in Dorset while things are put in place.

Leaders are saying this is a 'monumental' effort to deliver the 'largest vaccination programme in our history'. 

"Our vaccine teams continue working hard to get jabs in arms across Dorset", a spokesperson for Dorset CCG said.

Where CAN we get our jabs?

  • Wait for your GP practice to contact you or book via the national booking service (NBS) to get your booster at a larger centre or pharmacy.
  • Local GP-led vaccine services are offering the vaccine to the most vulnerable, so that they are invited to get their booster first.  
  • Two vaccination centres in Dorset – Vespasian House, Dorchester and King’s Park Hospital, Bournemouth. They have appointment slots for both children and adults. BUT both centres are very busy and walk-in availability is very limited.
  • Pharmacies. There are now more than 30 sites in Dorset offering vaccinations. https://www.dorsetccg.nhs.uk/vaccinations/sites/

Read more: All the vaccination sites in Dorset 

We're still struggling to book for a jab in Dorset

Health bosses admit they continue to see very high demand for boosters as the number of eligible people increases.

They say: "We’re working extremely hard to increase availability so please be patient. You will still have good levels of immunity if you receive the booster a little later."

The official advice is:

  • Centres are very busy so please keep trying as appointments are being added all the time. If a local venue isn’t showing on the system, it may be full – please check again later as appointments are being added all the time.
  • Staff are working extremely hard to support local communities – please show them the respect and kindness they deserve.

What can we do to help? 

  • There’s still time for people to get a first or second dose of the vaccine. Do encourage those who have not had theirs to come forward.
  • Taking regular rapid tests to check you’re not infectious, particularly before meeting others or attending gatherings.
  • Making sure you have plenty of ventilation, by meeting outdoors or keeping doors and windows open.
  • Wear a face covering in indoor and crowded spaces.
  • Wash your hands regularly.

Do we need vaccinators?

YES.

If people have appropriate experience, training is offered.

Find out more and apply today: https://joinourdorset.nhs.uk/vaccinators/