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COVID-19

Sunderland AFC and NHS Team Up for Winter Health Check Events

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Sunderland AFC fans will be able to get a free flu or COVID-19 vaccination, alongside blood pressure checks, diabetes screening, and advice on quitting smoking from NHS health teams at the Beacon of Light fan zone. This collaboration is part of a winter check event initiative, supported by four regional clubs, including Darlington FC, Spennymoor Town FC, and Gateshead FC. The goal is to provide free vaccinations and simple health check-ups to thousands of fans in the region.

Key Takeaways:

  • Sunderland AFC and the Foundation of Light are partnering with NHS North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB) to support winter health check events.
  • Fans attending Sunderland AFC matches will be offered free vaccinations against flu or COVID-19, as well as blood pressure checks, diabetes screening, and advice on quitting smoking.
  • The initiative aims to encourage fans to take up the offer of a free vaccine, which can protect them against serious illness and prevent missed matches over the Christmas season.
  • COVID-19 vaccinations are available for anyone over 75 and people who are immunosuppressed, while flu vaccines are available for pregnant women, over 65s, carers, frontline health and care staff, and those with long-term conditions or a weakened immune system.
  • The matchday health checks will be held at the Beacon of Light, 90 minutes before kick-off, and are available to everyone attending the match.
  • The partnership aims to make it easier for fans to access vital care and advice, with future matchday clinic dates scheduled throughout November and December.

Statistics:

  • Thousands of fans in the region are eligible for a free flu or COVID-19 vaccination this year.
  • The vaccines can be lifesaving, especially for older people and young children who are more likely to become seriously ill if they catch flu or COVID-19.
  • The matchday health checks will provide a full health MOT for fans at the Beacon of Light.

Sources:

  • [Dr Catherine Monaghan, medical director, NHS North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB)] "It's fantastic that Sunderland and the Foundation are helping to support our NHS vaccination campaign and winter health checks."
  • [Sunderland AFC and the Foundation of Light press release] "Sunderland AFC and the Foundation of Light are one of four clubs, united across the region, in supporting winter check events..."
  • [NHS North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB) website] "COVID-19 vaccinations are available for anyone over 75 and people who are immunosuppressed..."

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