BNSSG Healthier Together

UWE walk-in clinic offers extra support for people worried about having Covid-19 vaccine

14 February 2022

A dedicated clinic is now available at the Vaccination Centre @ UWE Bristol to support people who want to have their Covid-19 vaccine but may need some additional support for any reason. They may dislike needles or be worried they may faint or have another reaction to being vaccinated. They might also suit children aged 12-15 who might like some additional support to have their vaccination.

Fear of needles and injection concerns are very common, affecting at least one in ten people. Having the Covid-19 vaccine, or any other vaccination, can be stressful for people for a variety of reasons and these Extra Care Clinics will be led by health care professionals who are very experienced in vaccinating.

As more people come forward to have their Covid-19 vaccines in Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire (BNSSG), the fear or concerns about injections might be preventing others from being vaccinated.

Sue Jones, BNSSG Vaccination Programme Quality Lead said:

“We want to support anyone in our area who is struggling to come forward for a coronavirus vaccine because they have needle fear, injection concerns or would like additional support to have their vaccination for any reason.

“Vaccination concerns, such as a fear of needles, are nothing to be ashamed or embarrassed about, and this is part of the reason why we have now made a special clinic available to offer support.

“The day before attendance we will ring to confirm your specific needs. At the Extra Care Clinic, we have highly trained vaccinators who will listen to your concerns and provide a safe space for you to talk about your fears and to have your Covid-19 vaccine.

Not only is the Extra Care Clinic offering support to people with needle fear, but the clinic can also be attended by children, young people, and adults at risk of harm or abuse, needing confidential personal assistance.

The Extra Care Clinic is open for anyone aged 12 and over to have the coronavirus vaccine. You can find more information or book an appointment by visiting grabajab.net.

Sue Jones added:

“It is still important that people come forward for their first, second or booster dose of the Covid-19 vaccine. our Vaccination Team is working hard to ensure that no-one gets left behind.

“Please don’t let needle fear or injection concerns keep you from getting vaccinated. Come along and speak to one of our team. We are here to support you.”