Caley Jags' stadium becomes vaccination centre to help NHS Highland with 600 Covid-19 jabs
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Caledonian Stadium became a vaccination centre for a day over Easter after answering a call for help from NHS Highland.
More accustomed to a little bit of needle on match-days, the football ground provided the ideal, spacious environment to give 600 people from the city’s Crown Medical Practice their jags.
The club, currently pressing for a promotion play-off spot in the Championship, will be willing to repeat the Easter Monday gesture should the call come again.
Club chief executive Scot Gardiner said: “When we were initially approached by NHS Highland a few weeks ago, we were only too happy to help and volunteer the use of the stadium for any vaccination activity which may require a bigger operating space.
“The atmosphere was great all day, with a huge wave of positivity inside and out of the Caledonian Stadium.
“Aside from the brilliant medical practitioners doing the needle work, a special mention should go to the British Red Cross volunteers who helped staff the car parks and reception areas in sun, snow and freezing wind all day.
“We look forward to being able to help some more in the coming weeks.”
Dr Tim Allison, director of public health with NHS Highland, said: “Vaccination across NHS Highland is going well.
“We are seeing tremendous work being carried out by our GP colleagues and by our local teams who are vaccinating colleagues across health and social care.
“That work is being supported by a number of partners across Highland, Argyll and Bute and I’d like to convey huge thanks to all of those involved at Caledonian Stadium for their support and assistance with the programme.
“It is really very much appreciated.
“As the programme continues, please be advised we are following national guidance on vaccination and you will be called for your vaccine when it is time to get it.
“There is no need to contact your practice directly.”
