LEARNING disability nurses in Oldham are making it their mission to ensure all eligible residents receive their Covid-19 vaccinations.

Charlotte Platt and Marie Roberts, two Oldham learning disability nurses who work for Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust, recently visited Anne who’s a resident living in one of the MioCare Group’s Supported Living houses.

Anne decided to conquer her fear of needles after staff from the home explained more about Covid-19 and the vaccine.

After receiving her jab, she said: “All finished now…smashing.”

Nurse Marie Roberts said: “It’s an absolute privilege to be able to give Anne and other people their covid vaccine where they feel the safest and most relaxed, in their own homes.

“We’ve been able to vaccinate a lot of people with learning disabilities who ordinarily wouldn’t have had it.

“If you have a learning disability and need a covid vaccine, or know someone that does, please contact us and we can support.”

Natalie Brophy, a MioCare Group senior support worker, was with Anne when she had her second jab.

Natalie said: “I’ve seen first-hand what a fantastic relationship Anne has with our staff team. She’s extremely independent. Anne knows what she wants and what she doesn’t and, as the team will tell you, she’s not afraid to make it known.

“All the staff are so very fond of her. Anne herself is proud to have conquered her fear of needles and we’re delighted too, knowing that she’s as safe as she can be.”

Kay, another MioCare Group support worker, added: “I’ve worked with Anne for ten years on and off. I’m really happy that she feels so confident with the support and people she has around her.

“It’s brilliant that she’s now been fully vaccinated, and in the comfort of her own home thanks to the community nurses that were able to visit. Thank you Marie and Charlotte.”

Oldham learning disability teams are currently reaching out to any Oldham residents with a learning disability who are yet to have both doses of the Covid-19 vaccine.