MORE walk-in Covid-19 vaccination clinics have been announced for Oxford as young people reported difficulties securing appointments near them.

A number of residents in their twenties revealed they were struggling to book their first dose in a GP centre or a vaccine hub near them, with some directed as far as Reading for their jabs.

To meet the increasing demand for vaccinations, the Oxfordshire Clinical Commissioning Group (OCCG), which plans, buys and oversees health services in the county, has now set up two pop-up clinics in the city.

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Last weekend, as part of a 'grab a jab' event to push the numbers of local vaccinations, more than 800 first doses were administered to people aged 18 or over.

This is in addition to nearly 2,000 vaccines given to students at pop-up clinics held by University of Oxford and Oxford Brookes.

One 25-year-old woman in Abingdon, who wished to remain anonymous, said that when she tried to book her jab through the Government website, she was directed to the Reading Madejski Stadium.

However, not long after, her local GP in Abingdon contacted her to arrange an appointment.

Due to the success of last week's clinics held at The Leys Health Centre and East Oxford Health Centre, they will now be offering more first dose vaccines on:

The Leys Health Centre, Dunnock Way, Oxford OX4 7EX on Saturday, July 3 (9am to 1.30pm) 

East Oxford Health Centre, Manzil Way, Cowley OX4 1GE on Saturday, July 10 (9am to 5pm) 

People who attend a walk-in clinic for their first dose will have their vaccination record updated online and will then be able to book in their second dose appointment using the national booking system. 

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Jo Cogswell, director of transformation at Oxfordshire CCG, said: "We have had a fantastic uptake with over seven hundred thousand vaccinations delivered locally since the start of the vaccination programme. 

"In addition, we are delighted with the success of the walk-in clinics which enabled hundreds of younger people to receive a first dose of the vaccine to protect themselves and their families. 

"The flexibility of these clinics resulted in a great turnout, and we urge more people aged 18 or over to take advantage of the opportunity to grab a jab over the coming weekends to keep themselves safe and well.

"People can book a Covid-19 vaccination appointment on the NHS national booking system and we encourage them to check this on a regular basis to see if they can book one closer to their home, and to keep trying as slots become available daily that will be more convenient for them." 

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