Elgin mass vaccination centre to be named in tribute to local nurse

The site of a mass COVID-19 vaccination centre in Elgin is to be named the Fiona Elcock Centre, in memory of an immunisation nurse who died suddenly at the end of last year.

Final preparations are being made to the venue – the former ‘Topps Tiles’ site on Edgar Road in the town – ahead of first appointments taking place on Monday 25 January.

Laura Sutherland, the Moray lead for the COVID-19 vaccination programme said:

“Fiona was an incredibly popular and valued member of our immunisation team and we were deeply saddened by her sudden passing. Naming our mass vaccination centre after her is a fitting tribute to everything she achieved during her NHS career.”

“We are really delighted with the venue, which offers us a great facility to deliver the Covid Vaccination programme to the people of Moray. We have had superb support from the Army in preparing the venue and along with volunteers, assisting us in the day to day running of the clinic.

“We have been overwhelmed by the many kind offers of community facilities to host clinics in other parts of Moray. We cannot thank people enough for the support they have already shown.

In a joint statement, Fiona’s children Kerry and Kieran Elcock said: “Our family are honoured and delighted that the vaccination centre will be named after our beloved Mum, Fiona. She was extremely passionate about her nursing career spanning over 30 years. She formed strong relationships along the way and touched the lives of so many people. We are proud that her legacy of caring for others is able to continue through the Fiona Elcock Vaccination Centre.”

Vaccinations for the over 80s age group have been taking place over the previous fortnight, in the main at GP practices. Further vaccination centres are being set up across Moray, in Forres, Dufftown, Buckie, Keith. Appointment letters are now being issued for the 75-79 age group.

Laura Sutherland added: “We need the public to assist us in the smooth running of this programme, which is the largest mass vaccination exercise ever undertaken in the UK. Wherever possible they should accept and attend the appointment they are offered; while balancing appointment availability, we will always try to respond to individual needs. Please attend on your own unless you require the assistance of a carer. A carer may attend the appointment with you for support and both you and your carer should wear a face covering, and all COVID-19 safety measures adhered to, to protect them, other people, and the vaccination staff.”

Appointment letters will contain information on travel to and from the relevant centre. People are encouraged to make every effort to arrange their own transport to clinics. Travel for medical appointments is classed as essential travel and car sharing (with precautions) is permitted. There is advice on car sharing available.

The COVID-19 vaccination programme is being delivered in Grampian in line with the Scottish Government guidance, based on the recommendations for priority groups provided by the Joint Committee for Vaccination & Immunisation.