A VACCINATION centre in Oldbury has reached a major milestone, delivering its 50,000th dose of the lifesaving covid-19 jab.

Portway Lifestyle Centre has been carrying out vaccinations since last December, led by GPs from the Portway Family Practice on behalf of a network of 22 local surgeries.

The 50,000th dose was delivered on Friday May 7 to 60-year-old Shinda Ram, a self employed businessman from Smethwick.

Shinda Ram, aged 60, receives the 50,000 jab at Portway Lifestyle Centre in Oldbury

Shinda Ram, aged 60, receives the 50,000 jab at Portway Lifestyle Centre in Oldbury

Mr Ram, who was there to receive his second dose, said: “I am thankful to the staff here and in the whole of the NHS for working so hard during the pandemic and helping us to start to get back to normal.

“I already feel safer now I’ve had my second dose. I would encourage other people to come and get vaccinated when it is their turn, and to not forget to have the second dose.”

Local GPs have been instrumental in rolling out the vaccination programme across the Black Country and West Birmingham (BCWB).

GPs are offering the vaccine to patients within their wider Primary Care Network (PCN) from one nominated site such as Portway Lifestyle Centre, which was chosen due to its size and accessible location.

The PCNs, along with large-scale vaccination centres and selected local pharmacies, have together delivered more than 900,000 doses of the vaccine across BCWB to date.

Dr Arun Saini, clinical director for Citrus Health PCN and lead GP for the Portway Lifestyle Centre vaccination service, said: “This really is an incredible milestone to reach and it is all down to the amazing teamwork from our GP practices and partners, including Sandwell Leisure Trust who provided us with this excellent space.

“Our staff and volunteers have gone above and beyond to encourage people to come forward and ensure they have a good experience when they do. I’m proud of what the team has achieved.

“The response from our patients has been fantastic, but I would encourage everyone who has received an invitation from the NHS to please continue to come forward – it’s the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones.

"Vaccination is currently available to all those aged 40 and over, health and social care workers and carers, and anyone with a long-term health condition.

"Anyone who has previously declined but changed their mind will always be welcome to come forward when ready – simply speak to your own local GP or visit the NHS website."