Informal carers to receive vaccine alongside priority groups

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People who receive a carers’ allowance will be invited to receive a coronavirus vaccine during the first phase of vaccinations in Wales.

Speaking at the Welsh Government’s coronavirus press briefing on Monday, January 15, Health Minister Vaughan Gething confirmed carers who receive the allowance are in priority group six, alongside those defined as “at risk”.

People in priority groups five to nine should expect to receive their invitations for vaccination in the spring alongside adults in the “at risk” group, defined as those with conditions such as asthma, liver disease and diabetes.

On Monday, Aneurin Bevan University Health Board (ABUHB) confirmed they will vaccinate carers in line with the guidance.

The confirmation from the Welsh Government and ABUHB is in line with guidance from the UK’s Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI).

The JCVI recommends unpaid carers who receive carers’ allowance, or who are the main carer of an elderly or disabled person whose welfare may be at risk if the carer falls ill, should be prioritised alongside people with underlying health conditions.

People who receive a carers’ allowance should receive an invitation for a vaccination sometime in the spring alongside priority group six.

It is understood that Welsh government is still working on a schedule for vaccinating people not in receipt of the carers’ allowance but still care for people at risk.

Hefin David, Senedd Member for Caerphilly, said: “I am continuing to work with constituents and carers and I have raised their concerns with the health board and Welsh Government.”