I know this government has let disabled people down – but we must all support the vaccine programme

After months of shielding, I finally went on the most important trip I’ll take this year – to get my first dose of the long-awaited vaccine.

When I received the text message to book my vaccine, I couldn’t quite believe it. I cried with excitement and sheer relief. All of a sudden, I was able to think about the future again. My cancelled wedding was back on the cards. I can look forward to seeing friends again.

The simple fact is, the sooner the vaccine is rolled out, the sooner we can all begin to recover.

Apart from my fear of needles – which I was determined to ignore – I didn’t have any second thoughts about getting the jab. I am incredibly grateful to the amazing NHS staff who looked after me so well. They answered all my questions and made me feel totally at ease – not once did I feel vulnerable in any way.

The vaccine rollout is a national collective effort and we must all play our part. Whether that is volunteering, encouraging our family to get their vaccine or tackling disinformation online – getting Britain vaccinated will take each and every single one of us to play our part.

That’s why I’m proud to support Labour’s “Let’s vaccinate Britain” campaign, which encourages members and Trade Unionists to volunteer.

I don’t think I can describe how difficult shielding has been, even in my very fortunate position with a flat and a garden. It has taken a toll on every aspect of my life.

When the guidance was first offered for those deemed “clinically extremely vulnerable” to shield, I was in two minds about sharing my experience. But as Labour’s shadow minister for disabled people, I felt I had a responsibility to use my platform to amplify the voices of those shielding in parliament. Too few in Westminster understand what it’s like to be shut away, made to feel like an afterthought, by a government that keeps letting us down.

For those shielding, everything became harder. Even the most basic things, like getting access to food and medicine, became a challenge. I am fortunate to be able to manage the increased costs, but for many, limited food options have meant increased costs they simply cannot afford.

The reality is disabled people are experiencing spiralling costs with no additional support. It is completely unacceptable that nine months into this pandemic the government is still refusing to increase “legacy benefits”, as they did for Universal Credit.

Poor communication from government has only added to the difficulties and I know many disabled people have been deeply frustrated with mixed messages from the government. However, there is one message we can all agree on – the vaccine is vitally important if shielders are ever to get back to a normal life.

I know it is hard for disabled people to have faith in this government after months of being let down. Yet I cannot stress enough how vital it is that when our turn comes, we all do the responsible thing and get our jab.

Vicky Foxcroft is Labour’s shadow minister for disabled people

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