Question reference: S5W-35429
- Asked by: Alexander Stewart, MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party
- Date lodged: 22 February 2021
-
Current status: Answered by Jeane Freeman on 11 March 2021
Question
To ask the Scottish Government what progress is being made to ensure that no vulnerable people are excluded from the COVID-19 vaccine appointments list.
Answer
The Scottish Government has been very clear from day one that the pace and rollout of our national vaccine programme is key to tackling the pandemic and we are determined to reach as much of the population, and in order of vulnerability based on clinical advice, as fast as the vaccine supply allows us. The health of every person living in Scotland is important which is why the Scottish Government is making proactive policy decisions to make this programme as inclusive and accessible as possible, given the current constrains of supply and social distancing.
The Scottish Government and Public Health Scotland are actively engaging with third sector and faith organisations to reach a wide range of people across the community.
In addition, the Scottish Government has undertaken a wide range of campaigns in print, online and across media, and in various locations, to try to reach everyone in Scotland and inform them of the vaccination campaign.
A full update of the work to ensure an inclusive vaccination programme will be included in a future update to all MSPs.
By undertaking these steps we are trying to encourage a high uptake of the vaccine and ensure vulnerable people attend their appointment.
If an individual thinks they have been missed from the appointment list, they can call the vaccination helpline on 0800 030 8013, or use this link on NHS inform: at NHS inform: Missing appointments | The coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine (nhsinform.scot)