Weekend and evening Covid-19 vaccine appointments now available in Stockport

Stockport residents can now get their Covid-19 vaccination at more convenient times, thanks to weekend and evening appointments now available from a vaccine clinic at Trinity Methodist Church, 351 Bramhall Lane, SK3 8TP.

The clinic, operated by Scorah Chemist is open this week from 8am Thursday 30 September to Sunday 3rd October. Appointments are on offer from 8am to 6pm, Thursday to Saturday, and 8am to 2pm on Sunday. A walk-in session will take place from 2pm to 4pm on Sunday.

These clinics are designed to accommodate people with busy lifestyles, and the introduction of booked appointments will now also help to limit the need to wait.

Now, 16-17 year olds can also join the millions of others who have booked their jabs on the NHS National Booking Service. Or, people can book by simply calling 119 from any phone; translators are available on the telephone service if required.

The clinics are held inside Trinity Church, and there is limited on-site car parking available but people are asked to be considerate if they park in surrounding residential streets.

Trinity vaccination centre will offer the Pfizer jab for people aged 16 and over, subject to eligibility. Adults over 40 can receive Oxford Astra Zeneca or Pfizer, subject to eligibility and availability. Second doses of the same vaccination can be given if eight weeks, (56 days), have passed since receiving the first dose.

For booster vaccinations, the national guidance says that it can only be received after 6 months of having the last one, at least 182 days, and no later than 238 days after the last dose.

Dr Cath Munro, Chair of NHS Stockport Clinical Commissioning Group, said:

With the help of some excellent community pharmacies, Stockport is helping its residents to build its immunity levels against Covid as the seasonal influx of bugs, flu and colds arrive, which – if caught – reduce the strength of our immune systems.

“Getting vaccinated really helps to limit the likelihood of getting serious symptoms of Covid, including hospitalisation. Plus, it’s a genuine act of wanting to keep others better protected. Boosters, as long as six months have passed since the last one, are also an excellent idea to recharge your immunity levels.

“It is also sensible to ensure we still wash our hands regularly, especially when we have been out in public places.”

Rishi Bhatia, pharmacist, Scorah Chemist, said:

“The evolving vaccine programme is a great opportunity for community pharmacies to work hand-in-hand with primary care to develop even better ways of delivering a much-needed service.

“In collaboration with our partners – and our very many volunteers who do an incredible service for the community – Scorah’s Pharmacy is really proud to manage the weekly clinics at Trinity. We believe that our early opening and later closing times will particularly help anyone with a busy lifestyle who needs a guaranteed time.”

Cllr Jude Wells, Cabinet Member for Adult Care and Health at Stockport Council, said:

“As autumn is now upon us, the community naturally starts gearing up for seasonal illness, such as flu, and the vaccine against Covid is now part of that preparation.

“Together, we need to carry on thinking – and acting – as if Covid is still a significant risk to our individual and community health because it absolutely is. And a basic way of minimising the risk of catching colds, flu or Covid starts with regular hand hygiene.”