105-year-old celebrates getting both covid jabs as Jarrow care home claims it is first in the North East to be '100% vaccinated'

Needham Court care home in Jarrow, run by provider, HC-One, is celebrating the milestone that all residents have now received their second dose of the Covid-19 vaccine, which managers say makes it the home the first in the North East to be 100% vaccinated.

Among those to have had both jabs is 105-year-old Sheila Cork.

“I never thought I would see such a pandemic in my lifetime and I have lived a long time I am so grateful for the vaccine,” she said.

Needham Court Home Manager, Joann Mills said said the home is one of only four care homes in England with all residents having received both doses of the COVID-19 vaccine.

She said residents, their loved ones and the team members at the home are delighted with this achievement and are hoping it is a big step towards being able to return to life as they once knew it.

“Everyone at Needham Court is relieved that our residents have all received their full vaccinations and our team are in the process of receiving theirs too,” said Joann.

The manager said reaching the vaccine landmark comes at an important time for Needham Court, as the Government guidelines changed allowing residents to receive indoor visits from one designated visitor.

Needham Court, in Jarrow’s Stanhope Road, offers short and long term care packages for older members of the community needing residential or residential dementia care.

Support your Gazette and become a subscriber today. Enjoy unlimited access to local news, the latest football stories and new puzzles every day. With a digital subscription, you can see fewer ads, enjoy faster load times, and get access to exclusive newsletters and content. Click here to subscribe.