PEOPLE in Ludlow and across Shropshire are being urged to ‘be a part of history’ – by applying for roles in the county’s COVID-19 Vaccination Service.

Hubs are already up and running in Shrewsbury and Bridgnorth, with more due to be set up in other areas of the county in the next few days and weeks.

Vaccination represents the country’s best hope of a return to more normal life, and work is under way to roll out the vaccine as quickly as possible – starting with the over 80s, care home staff and vulnerable NHS staff.

Hubs are currently being staffed by healthcare workers from providers across the region who have been temporarily seconded from their regular roles to get the service up and running.

But a dedicated workforce is being recruited in order to staff the hubs and make sure other important services are not adversely impacted.

There are opportunities for current and retired healthcare professionals, but also for non-clinical staff in a range of administrative, reception and other front-of-house roles.

Volunteers will also be needed to support the vaccination service as it develops, and a volunteer recruitment process is currently being developed, working closely with the voluntary and community sector. Once it is ready, it will be promoted widely so that individuals with time to help, and organisations with existing volunteers, will be able to register their interest.

Sarah Sheppard is Director of People at The Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital NHS Trust, who are serving as the lead employer for the vaccination service in Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin.

“This is an amazing opportunity to do something truly important,” said Ms Sheppard.

“Everyone working in the COVID-19 vaccination service will be able to look back and tell their families that they did their bit in the fight against coronavirus; and were a part of history.”