Free, confidential COVID-19 vaccination phone service and community health events for Lewisham

Launched by Modality Partnership (one of several primary care networks in Lewisham) with the local NHS and Lewisham Council, it is 
being promoted by GPs, pharmacies and other healthcare networks across the borough.

You can book online or call 07828 499044 (WhatsApp: 07376 810219) to arrange a free, confidential conversation with a healthcare professional – a local pharmacist - who will be able to give you the latest information on the vaccination and answer any questions you may have.

Dr Sian Knight, a GP at Modality Lewisham who established the helpline said:

“Getting vaccinated is the best thing you can do to protect yourself and others from COVID-19. People understandably have questions and all of the people who have called the line have been given the information they needed to be comfortable making their vaccination decision.”

This latest initiative is part of a targeted programme of community engagement to make it easy for local people to get information they need to make an informed decision about getting the COVID-19 vaccination. Priority passes allowing walk-ins at local vaccination sites are also being distributed to more vulnerable residents who are eligible but might struggle with the booking system. 

Community health event at Besson Street Community Garden offers COVID-19 vaccination

Walk-in vaccination clinics are popping up in local communities making it even more convenient for eligible people to get the vaccination.

At Besson Street Community Garden on Friday, dozens came along for their first jab as part of a community health open day run by local GPs, public health team and the New Cross Gate Trust who offered everyone not only tea and cake, but the chance to sow a seed so they could take home a beautiful plant when it’s time for the second jab. A rapid test collection point also offered everyone home test kits to take home, as staff reminded people it was still important to continue regular testing even after the vaccination. 

Dr Catherine Mbema, Director of Public Health for Lewisham said:

“Getting the COVID-19 vaccination offers the best protection to keep everyone safe as social distancing measures are relaxed. Working with community groups is proving to be a really great way of connecting with local residents who want to get their first jab in familiar surroundings with people they know and trust.''

“People of Lewisham are telling us that they have questions and they want to talk to a healthcare professional before they come forward for vaccination so community health events and our new confidential telephone call back service is providing peace of mind.”

For information about the vaccine see nhsselondonvaccinefacts.com