Individual stories count in the biggest story for a generation - Editor's comment

Vaccines are the best news we have had since we first heard the dreaded word covid.
Grindon Lane Primary Care Centre Covid-19 vaccine.Grindon Lane Primary Care Centre Covid-19 vaccine.
Grindon Lane Primary Care Centre Covid-19 vaccine.

Thousands of Sheffielders have now have their first injection and they, as well as everyone in their families, are over the moon.

It has been lovely to see letters from people who are filled with joy and it has been wonderful to share their news. This is enormous progress for every single individual in a world of huge stories where it has sometimes been too easy to lose sight of the real people. Let’s never forget that it is always individuals who count most and that includes you. It is more important than ever to remember that as we all try to find bright ways through challenging days.

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You can’t help but smile when you think of the people, hopefully including some you know personally, who are absolutely thrilled to share their own stories of receiving the vaccine.

They have been delighted at the speed of the service, the kindness and efficiency of the teams, and, obviously, that they personally have been vaccinated. Thanks to everyone who has been in touch and if you have a story to tell about yourself or a relative, do get let me know. We want to reflect the true situation and reassure those who are nervous.

But we are also aware of many folk in their 80s and 90s who have heard nothing so far about their vaccines and are getting increasingly worried. We know the system isn’t perfect and won’t stop asking questions on your behalf. Not all neighbourhoods seem to be being treated fairly and there are glaring discrepancies. That is why we want to hear from you, not just those at the top.

As you’ll have seen yesterday, we have also started pushing the government to allow all pharmacies to to give the vaccine, just like they do for flu. Such simple suggestions must be acted upon if we are to make the most of what our communities can offer.

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There is a lot of confusing information out there, not to mention the covidiots who are waging a war on the truth. They want to scaremonger. They say they won’t take the vaccine so will they also refuse care from our NHS if they catch the virus?

Thanks for supporting local journalism in your city so we can bring you facts, thoroughly checked, when they are most needed.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a digital subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.

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