People with learning difficulties and autism invited to have Covid jab

They have started receiving jabs this week and appointments can be made via their local GP or at the Peepul Centre, in Leicester,

Any patient who is interested in attending, but hasn’t received an invitation, should speak to their learning disability health professional.

Sessions, protectively organised and run by Leicestershire Partnership Trust (LPT), were quickly set up at the Peepul Centre this week to enable patients with learning disabilities and autism, who had not already had their vaccine, to get one in a comfortable environment.

Helen Thompson, director of families, young people, children’s services and learning disabilities at LPT, said: “I’m really pleased that we’ve been able to quickly act to welcome our patients with learning disabilities and autism to get their first covid vaccination in an environment which is relaxed and positive.

“Our amazing staff have worked really hard to ensure the appointments are calm, quiet and supportive.

“We had specialist nurses on hand to administer the vaccines and the appointments were longer than usual so patients received additional tailored support that didn’t feel rushed or uncomfortable.

“We know that providing these sessions will bring a huge sense of relief to many families and people in the community and we are delighted to have received wonderful feedback from patients who have already attended their appointment.”