AN appeal is being made to Dudley Council to provide transport for the borough’s frail and elderly to get to their Covid vaccinations.

Cllr Shaukat Ali, Shadow Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care, wants the council to supply transport to vulnerable people who don’t have their own.

He has written to the Leader of the Council requesting that such a service is provided and asked the Director of Public Health for advice so that people can be helped as soon as possible.

Cllr Ali said “Tthere are concerns about some being put off because they don’t have their own transport, don’t have family living nearby, are unable to use public transport or can’t afford to pay for a taxi. The lack of access to transport should not be a reason for not getting the vaccination.”

Vaccinations are available at several ‘service points’ across the borough, plus Russells Hall Hospital.

A mass vaccination centre is being set up at the Black Country Museum.

Cllr Ali added “It is important that everyone gets vaccinated as soon as possible to prevent the spread of coronavirus and the new strain, protect everyone and start to get back to normality.

“I alongside other Labour Councillors have offered to volunteer to drive residents once we have received advice from public health. I am sure many other people from across the borough will join us as long as the council sets up a COVID secure system to ensure the safety of those helping and transported.

“I must emphasise adherence to COVID guidance as a priority for everyone as this is the only way we will tackle the pandemic until a time everyone is vaccinated and the risk of spread of infection is minimal.”