BAME councillors come together to encourage vaccine uptake

Over 12 million people in the UK have now had one dose of the vaccine but there have been concerns that those from within Black, Asian, and minority ethnicities were less likely to accept a vaccine when offered.

Barriers to vaccine uptake include perception of risk, low confidence in the vaccine, distrust, access barriers, inconvenience, socio-demographic context and lack of endorsement, lack of vaccine offer, or lack of communication from trusted providers.

Councillor Mohammed Azim, Lord Mayor of Birmingham, said “To protect family, friends and the community from coronavirus, it is essential to take a vaccine when offered by the NHS.

“We understand there is a real reluctance for some to take the vaccine which is a brought on by a series of myths and misinformation spread online and through various social media sites.

“Please do not believe this misinformation.  The vaccine is perfectly safe.  My wife has had both vaccines.  I have had my first vaccine and am looking forward to having the second one soon.”

Councillor Paulette Hamilton, Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care, “Vaccination is our way out of this pandemic, it is great to see so many Councillors from all ethnic minority groups, and all political parties come together to encourage the uptake of the vaccine within our local communities.

“The impact that positive messaging has from trusted sources cannot be underestimated within the community who relies on our support.

“People from ethnic minority backgrounds have been disproportionately affected by Covid-19, so anything we can do to stop the spread within our local communities is vital. I would encourage you all to take the vaccine when invited to do so.”

For a full Q&A on the vaccination programme from health and social care staff, please visit, https://www.birmingham.gov.uk/downloads/file/18368/covid-19_vaccine_questions_and_answers