Our number one priority is the safety of our clients and staff. During the COVID-19 pandemic, we have put various measures in place to ensure that the level of care delivered is both safe and well-led, whilst mitigating the risk of transmission. With a large majority of Trinity Homecare staff now vaccinated against COVID-19, we want to offer reassurance to you and your loved ones, remaining as transparent as possible.
The importance of vaccinations for frontline care workers
Catching COVID-19 can be serious for some individuals, leading to long term health complications that can affect everyone in different ways. Although this is more common in older generations and those with underlying health conditions, everyone faces a considerable health threat from Coronavirus.
That’s why it’s essential that frontline workers are now beginning to be vaccinated to continue providing care for those who need it; whilst reducing the risk of becoming ill or passing on the infection.
Our home care staff and care workers are vaccinated against coronavirus
More than 160 members of staff at Trinity Homecare have now received their first dose of the vaccination, along with approximately 16 million other people in the UK. This is a positive step in ensuring our staff, clients, and loved ones are kept safe during the pandemic and gives us hope for the following months in 2021.
A large majority of staff have been vaccinated at Trinity Homecare, with the vaccination still available to every member of staff and new starters.
We understand that some individuals may have questions about the vaccine, which is why we have spoken to our team so you can hear their experience:
“I am impressed that we were able to get vaccinated so quickly and that so many of us applied. I got vaccinated at Kingston Hospital and have to say it was well organised and managed. The sooner we get the majority of the population vaccinated, the sooner we will be able to return to the life we used to know” – Area Care Manager, Sonia
“The whole experience was stress-free and ran smoothly. The hospital admin staff were very efficient and got us in and out quickly, ensuring that there was social distancing at all times. The nurses were great and up for a little bit of banter, making the entire experience jovial. The only small side effect was my an ache in my arm for 24 hours.” – Care Manager, Debbie
“I had my vaccination last Tuesday at Epsom General Hospital. Everything went very smoothly. I had clear instruction from the staff who asked me to wait 20 minutes after the vaccination as I was driving. The staff were lovely, and made lots of medical checks to make sure you can have the vaccine.” – Team Leader, Shona
COVID-19 Vaccination FAQs
We understand that COVID-19 has left a lot of uncertainty. The speed in which the vaccinations have been rolled out can lead a person to question whether the vaccine is safe and worth our while. It is normal to have questions before making the decision to get vaccinated and so we have listed some frequently asked questions to help you stay informed and reassured.
What vaccinations are available?
Scientists around the world are working tirelessly in developing various vaccinations to prevent the spread and symptoms of COVID-19. In the UK, there are currently three available approved vaccines: Pfizer BioNTech, Oxford AstraZeneca and Moderna. They all require 2 doses to provide the best protection.
Is it safe to receive the vaccination?
The vaccinations that are available in the UK have been approved as safe and effective by the independent Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) just like any other vaccine would have.
How effective are the Pfizer, Moderna and Oxford vaccines?
The Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are around 95% effective and the Oxford vaccine is up to 90% effective.
Can I choose which vaccine I have?
When you decide to book your vaccine, NHS professionals will assess your individual needs and medical history to ensure you receive the vaccine that is most suitable for you.
How long will the vaccination protect me for?
It can take up to two weeks for your body to build up protection from the first dose of the vaccine. However, it is important to continue to follow government guidance and take precautions as like all vaccinations, they aren’t always completely effective.
Can I still catch COVID-19 once I have had the vaccination?
The likelihood of you contracting coronavirus after being vaccinated is minimal. However, in the event that you contract the virus, symptoms should be less severe.
Can I catch COVID-19 from the vaccination?
The vaccination will not infect you with COVID-19.
Can I still pass COVID-19 to someone else once I am vaccinated?
There is still uncertainty as to whether you may be able to carry and pass the virus on. Therefore, it is important to continue to follow government guidance.
Who is the vaccination available to?
The NHS is currently offering the vaccine to people most at risk from coronavirus.
It’s being given to:
- people aged 65 and over
- people who are at high risk from coronavirus (clinically extremely vulnerable)
- people who are at moderate risk from coronavirus (clinically vulnerable)
- people who live or work in care homes
- health and social care workers i.e. those working in a domiciliary/visiting and live-in care setting
Where will I receive my vaccine?
In England, the vaccine is being offered in some hospitals and pharmacies, and at vaccination centres run by medical professionals. The place in which you will receive your vaccination will be down to availability and location.
What are the side effects of the vaccine?
Like any vaccination, there may be temporary side effects. The most common side effect is a slightly sore arm after receiving the jab. In some cases, you may feel fatigued, have headaches, muscle aches or a fever. In the unlikely event that you have any other side effects, you must report these to the MHRA’s Coronavirus Yellow Card Reporting Site.
As a care worker, should I be vaccinated?
The majority of Trinity Homecare staff are vaccinated. You are not obligated to get the vaccine but we do urge our care workers to get vaccinated to protect not just themselves but the elderly and vulnerable clients that we work with.
What are the benefits of the vaccination?
Receiving the vaccination means that we may be able to return to a more “normal” way of life more quickly, through becoming immune to the virus. Getting vaccinated will support the NHS as it means they are less likely to become overwhelmed with hospital admissions. By getting yourself vaccinated you are protecting yourself and the elderly and vulnerable.
Find out more about how we are protecting our staff and clients on our Covid-19 page. It has also been suggested that care at home care is the safest alternative to a care home during COVID-19.
For further information, please visit gov.uk/coronavirus.
Whether you are vaccinated or not, it is still important to follow the latest government guidance.
If you are interested in working with us, please look at our vacancies and apply.
If you wish to discuss care options, speak with a friendly care professional at a time that suits you by booking a call.
