This year with the risks of Covid-19, Hulme, Moss Side and Rusholme INT Leadership team recognised that it was more vital than ever to get as many people in our Neighbourhood immunised to protect themselves, their communities and to reduce the strain on the NHS. With the second wave of Covid-19 it was essential to try and prevent a peak of flu coinciding with this.

Although GPs across the city were working harder than ever to get as many people in Manchester vaccinated as soon as possible, many residents have been afraid to come to surgeries. We recognised the need for a different model to prevent the spread of covid-19 and to handle the increased demand.

We therefore planned and implemented a drive-through for practices to use along-side existing, adapted surgery-based models to keep patients socially distanced and get them immunised quickly and safely without having to leave the comfort of their car! We called upon local faith communities, volunteers, wider partnership organisations, and practices who worked tirelessly to get it up and running.

It was well received with patients finding it a new but reassuring and convenient experience and proving our Neighbourhood team’s excellent innovation and collaboration.