Dr Kathryn Hildreth, GP and clinical supervisor, shares her experience of vaccinating at The Parks in North Shields as part of #MyVaccineStoryNT.
Being part of the vaccination programme in North Tyneside has been the highlight of my career as a GP. I have loved every minute it of it.
Kathryn had been working initially as a vaccinator and then as a clinical supervisor, overseeing and supporting medical students from Newcastle and Sunderland University as well as Health Care Assistants and student Physician Assistants.
“For me, one of the most unexpected things about being involved has been the emotions and outpouring of gratitude from those being vaccinated. Particularly at the beginning of the programme in December 2020. For some of the elderly patients, and those that had been shielding since March 2020, a trip to the vaccination centre was the first trip out of the house in months – and for some the first contact with others.”
“Not only have I seen the joy and happiness of having a vaccine, I have also seen tears and worry surrounding the unknowns of the vaccine and fear of Coronavirus. It really is a roller coaster of emotions when working at The Parks.”
“One of the things that has impressed me the most is the outstanding teamwork between the volunteers, healthcare professionals and administration team that have made the programme such a success. I have been truly impressed by all involved. I have particularly enjoyed working as a clinical supervisor and time and time again, I have been impressed with the high standard of knowledge, communication skills and professionalism of those that I have been supervising. Every person is treated with care, from the first of the day to the thousandth!”
“I feel very proud to have been involved. I have enjoyed being able to vaccinate my patients who I have known for over 20 years, the staff at Priory Medical Group and some of my family and friends who live locally.”
“It is an experience I will never forget.”
