Vaccine centres open, Covid testing centres shut, and what to do if you missed jab due to snow in Doncaster

NHS bosses confirmed vaccine centres were working through the snow, but there had been missed appointments as over 80s had been unable to reach the locations.

NHS Doncaster Clinical Commissioning Group,director of strategy and delivery, Anthony Fitzgerald said: “Doncaster’s vaccination sites have remained open throughout the snowy weather to ensure that any patients who safely attended appointments received their vaccination.

"Understandably, some people were affected by the weather and were unable to attend. Patients who missed their vaccination appointment will be contacted to arrange a new time. Please be assured that nobody will miss out on their jab and we strongly encourage patients to only attend open sites during adverse weather if it absolutely safe for them to do so.”

Rebecca Joyce, chief operating officer at Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals, said: “As a Trust we have implemented our severe weather plans, and services remain open and suitably staffed. Despite the inclement conditions, patient care and treatment remains our number one priority.

“We would like to take this opportunity to ask our local residents to only travel if it is absolutely necessary, and to be careful if they’re out and about. Check local guidance where you are before travelling and please stay safe.

“Finally, we would like to extend our thanks to Yorkshire 4X4 Response, who supported some of our colleagues to get to and from our sites safely.”

But Doncaster’s director of pubic health, Dr Rupert Suckling confirmed the testing centres were closed today.

He said: “Unfortunately the snow and cold weather mean that our Covid testing centres are closed today (Friday) but if you do show any Covid symptoms please continue to self-isolate until it is safe for you to go out and get a test.

“Our vaccination programme continues in Doncaster despite the weather, although if you have any concerns about getting to your appointment safely please call your GP practice to rearrange. Please only travel if it is safe to do so.

“A reminder as well that you will be contacted directly by the NHS to get vaccinated, so please do not call your doctor to find out when yours will be.”

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