Grab a jab before it’s too late: vaccination sites in Gloucester and Cheltenham hold ‘last-chance’ drop-in clinics

  • Rosebank surgery, Gloucester
  • Cheltenham East Fire Station

Saturday 17 July 10am-2pm

Two local GP-led vaccination sites are holding a ‘last chance’ drop-in service on Saturday 17 July for anyone over the age of 18 who has yet to take up the offer of their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.

The move comes as the NHS continues the final push to vaccinate as many people as possible before restrictions lift fully on 19 July.

The bulk of vaccinations have, and continue to be, provided by appointment through 10 GP led primary care network community vaccination centres, but a number of flexible ‘drop-in’ clinics have also been offered in recent weeks to ensure all available slots are used.

Anyone over 18 will be able to drop-in and get a first dose of the Pfizer vaccination at Rosebank surgery or Cheltenham East Fire Station while going about their usual weekend business – without needing to book a time in advance.

People can also drop-in if they are overdue a second dose of AstraZeneca (at least 8 weeks since their first dose).

GP lead at Rosebank vaccination centre, Dr Jonathan Layzell said:
“Due to the fantastic work of local vaccination teams and the great response from our patients, overall uptake has been great, but some people may have not booked for their first dose because they haven’t been able to find a convenient appointment.
We are encouraging anyone who hasn’t yet taken up the offer of a first dose of the vaccine to drop-in on 17 July, you don’t have to be registered with one of our GP practices.
The vaccination is our best chance of protecting ourselves from the most severe symptoms of COVID-19 or spreading the virus to someone who may be more vulnerable. Having a vaccination is another step closer to getting life back to normal.”

GP lead at Cheltenham East Fire Station, Dr Cameron Jackson, said:
“We are really pleased to be able to offer this service, building on the success of the vaccine roll out to date.
We want to reassure local people that we have got a friendly, professional team here on site who are happy to listen, answer questions and provide information.
Our message to anyone who may have changed their mind about taking up the offer of a vaccine is come along and get a jab as soon as you can, so that you’re on the way to being protected from COVID-19 before restrictions are lifted on 19 July.”

Everyone attending will be asked to observe social distancing rules and other precautions so people may experience a short wait on the day. The vaccination teams will be grateful for everyone’s understanding, patience and support.

Please bring a face mask with you, unless you’re exempt, and remember to eat and drink before you leave home.

People should not attend the drop-in service if:

  • they have already made an appointment at a vaccination centre in the county
  • they have symptoms of COVID-19 or have had a positive COVID-19 test within the last 4 weeks.

Notes to editors:

People are encouraged to walk or use public/alternative transport options if possible. Although car parking is available, it is limited and the teams at the centres are keen to keep congestion to a minimum for patients and staff.

Residents over 18 can continue to get their 1st and 2nd doses by appointment through the countywide network of existing GP led Primary Care Network Community Vaccination Centres at all other times.

Gloucestershire is widely recognised as being at the forefront of the COVID-19 vaccination response and continues to provide a highly successful community programme.

More than 800,000 doses have been given to date – which represents a huge step in helping to keep people safe and well.