Despite some of the people we support being very nervous about having their COVID vaccination, Gemma Donaldson, Registered Manager at Cornerstones, worked hard with her team to help everyone understand what to expect and the benefits of having their vaccination.

Creating lots of opportunities to talk about their concerns, Gemma and her team shared easy read information and let the people we support choose their preferred member of staff to be their buddy and help them on the vaccination day.

"The whole process was very quick" said Gemma. "Arriving on time at the doctor’s surgery we were seen in twos to have our temperatures taken and after a very short wait went through for our vaccinations. Quite a few of our colleagues had their vaccination first to show their ’buddy’ that there was nothing to be scared about."

"Everyone was given their own card to show they had received their first vaccination and remind them that they will need a second appointment. And, when we all got back, we had some nice things planned as a little celebration."

"I was so pleased with the outcome." said Gemma, "All the people we support at Cornerstones have now had their first vaccination and they were so proud to show everyone their cards and talk about their experience when they returned."

Karen Lewis, National Care Group Chief Operations Officer, said: “We remain committed to following government guidance and encouraging everyone to get their vaccination. It is great to see the proactive approach being taken within our services to spread the message.”