Portsmouth pharmacy among first to help with vaccine rollout praises veterans charity for help
A PHARMACY leading from the front in the Covid-19 vaccination programme has praised volunteers from a charity who helped set up and manage its clinic.
After expressing its desire to help in the fight against coronavirus, Forgotten Veterans UK, based in Fort Cumberland, was referred to Lalys Pharmacy by Portsmouth City Council.
The pharmacy was the first in Portsmouth, and one of the first in the UK to be asked to contribute to the national rollout.
Throughout February, a rota of over 20 volunteers managed the arrival and passing of individuals through Lalys Pharmacy’s Guildhall Walk vaccination centre, checking booking information and ensuring social distancing.
Lalys Pharmacy, which has branches in Guildhall Walk, Fratton, North End and Southsea, was named among the chain of 200 independent stores shortlisted by the government to carry out protective jabs.
The move followed The News’ plea to the government to use the nation’s 11,500-strong network of pharmacies in our campaign – A Shot In The Arm.
Speaking of the support from Forgotten Veterans, a spokeswoman for Lalys Pharmacy, said: ‘Their help has been invaluable in recent weeks. As we had the space behind our pharmacy, we were asked to administer Covid vaccinations at quite short notice.
‘But the team from Forgotten Veterans UK meant we could concentrate on physical, medical and administrative logistics of running the centre, while they dealt with visitors.
‘We are so very grateful for their time, effort and practical assistance. I know our staff have enjoyed working with them very much.’
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Gary Weaving, founder of Forgotten Veterans UK, said: ‘Being called to take part in a national effort is something we are inevitably very comfortable with.
‘We are always taking part in charity and community initiatives, often so that veterans find purpose and a way to take part in civilian life. Our work with the staff of Lalys Pharmacy has been tremendously satisfying and enjoyable.’
In appreciation of their efforts, Lalys Pharmacy has made a donation of £500 which will go towards hardship grants the charity awards veterans struggling to pay bills, support their families or in need of resources to find employment.
For more information visit forgottenveteransuk.com