IF YOU are an unpaid carer and you have not been identified as such in relation to receiving your vaccine, you are now able to register yourself for a Covid-19 vaccination appointment.

You can do this by visiting nhsinform.scot/carersregister and this will allow unpaid carers aged between 16 and 64 who provide face-to-face care for a family member or friend to organise their appointment.

All unpaid carers are being encouraged to self-register and when they do, they will be advised if they are already scheduled for an appointment. The service we receive from unpaid carers is hugely valued and they will be under unique stresses from the pandemic relating to their caring responsibilities. They need to ensure they are protected in order to also effectively protect those they care for. As such, it’s important the Scottish Government have launched this system, which supports every carer who is eligible to register and ensure they receive it. For any further questions, contact the helpline on 0800 030 8013.

I continue to work with Riverside Medical Practice and relevant stakeholders to ensure that patient concerns are being addressed relating to the practice. Riverside has been very active in engaging and making changes to improve the service provided locally, as well as putting in place effective feedback measures.

I expect to have a meeting with the practice this month to discuss further steps to improve service, following a fruitful meeting in January with the practice and NHS stakeholders. I would also like to reiterate that if you have queries about the Covid-19 vaccination, these should be directed to the Covid National Helpline on 0800 030 8013 and not to your GP, unless it is regarding allergy enquiries.

This week I held a meeting with the Esk River Improvement Group and we continue to have helpful, co-ordinated discussions about how to improve the cleanliness of the River Esk. I would like to thank all the stakeholders and local volunteers who are also committed to improving the condition of the Esk.