WATCH: Therapy dogs at Salisbury City Hall helping calm children getting vaccines
They're trying different initiatives this half term
Therapy dogs have made visits to Salisbury City Hall vaccine centre this week to help children get their jabs.
In order to calm young people down and give them some distractions when getting their shot, NHS staff are trying some different initiatives this half term.
Children aged between 12 and 15 and 5 to 11 year olds who are at risk have been encouraged to get their jabs.
Fiona Hyett the Vaccination Centre Director at Salisbury City Hall Vaccination Centre said:
"We recognise that the idea of having a vaccination when you are really young can be an anxious time for both the child and parent.
“Having pet therapy dogs on site has really helped provide comfort and distraction for the youngest children as they are being vaccinated. It has helped them be the superhero’s that they are."
WATCH:
Dr Julie Yates, Lead Consultant for Screening and Immunisation for NHS England and NHS Improvement South West, said:
“Covid-19 continues to pose a risk to everyone, but especially to those who are at risk due to underlying health conditions.
“The vaccine will protect those aged 5 to 11 and are at most risk, as well as protecting those who are household contacts of immunosuppressed.
“Appointments for this group need to be booked locally, so please book as soon as you receive a letter.”