Maria Weatherston, New Care’s regional support manager, was the company’s very first employee to have the COVID vaccination. The vaccination was given at Blackpool Victoria Hospital by a nurse called Sue, on Tuesday 8th December 2020.
Maria comments: “The process was so quick easy and overall a pleasant experience. The nurse, Sue, was amazing and reassured at all times. It was a quick process of 10 minutes and as my husband drove me there, and we left quickly with a side effects leaflet. The only side effect I have is a slight ache in my arm, but nothing more.
"This vaccine has changed my life already and I have the next vaccine booked in for 3 weeks’ time. It’s the beginning of the end for me as I have shielded for most of the year due to being extremely high risk. I haven’t just had the vaccine for me, but to protect New Care’s residents at every facility also.”
Maria, from St Annes, is actively involved in the setting up of new services and ensuring all systems and processes are in line with New Care’s exacting policies and procedures. She will also be responsible for auditing homes to ensure that the highest standards are maintained by supervising, motivating and training the growing team to uphold corporate standards and ensure everyone complies with the latest legislation.