A community centre has teamed up with the NHS to protect more people from Covid-19 through vaccination.

The Millan Centre in Manningham held a Q&A session alongside NHS workers to break down myths and concerns around the vaccine.

It encouraged several women to come forward for their first ever Covid-19 vaccination.

The panel featured Saliha Sadiq, co-chairperson and director of mental health at the centre, and fellow co-chairperson Elizabeth Hellmich were joined by the NHS’ Mohsin Salim and Julie Slack.

Co-chair Elizabeth Hellmich MBE shared her own experience of getting vaccinated and how it makes her feel protected.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Saliha Sadiq, co-chairperson and director of mental health at the centre, was among those who received a booster vaccination Saliha Sadiq, co-chairperson and director of mental health at the centre, was among those who received a booster vaccination (Image: UGC)

Karen Dawber, chief nursing officer at Bradford Teaching Hospitals Trust and senior responsible officer for the Bradford District and Craven’s vaccination programme, said: “Getting a Covid-19 booster and flu jab means it’s one less thing for people to worry about this winter as many of us have to deal with other issues linked to the cost of living crisis.

“Having someone poorly at home with Covid-19 or flu just adds to people's worry list and we can reduce the risk of this by getting vaccinated.

“Our winter wellbeing health fairs reflect the feedback we've had from our communities as well as national evidence, supporting an approach that makes it really convenient for people to walk-in and grab a Covid-19 and flu vaccine jab close by to where they live with no appointment needed.

“These events have also offered wider health support and advice including mental health, health checks and signposting to cost of living support schemes for those that need it most.

“This means we are supporting some of our most vulnerable communities with a range of wellbeing support and advice.

“We'd like to thank our colleagues and our communities for coming forward and getting vaccinated.

“But we must all stay vigilant and we’re really urging those over 50, in an at-risk group or pregnant women, to boost your immunity by getting a flu vaccine and COVID-19 jab as one of your new year’s resolutions.”

Saliha told how it is vital for the NHS to work in partnership with the community and the voluntary sector in order to reach out to people and achieve results.

Saliha told the Telegraph & Argus: “Some ladies who have never been vaccinated came forward. It’s coming from somebody they know, who they see as a role model. I’m trying to promote this as much as I can now.

“It’s so important for people to get vaccinated. Covid is still here. It’s not gone away.

“BAME people are more affected so please come forward and get vaccinated.”

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