Members of the Polish community are getting their vaccine to make sure they are protected against COVID-19.

The best way of staying safe against COVID-19 is to get vaccinated. The majority of residents have had their vaccine, but there are still some who are yet to have had theirs.

Ealing’s strength is its diversity and, in order to encourage people from every community to get their vaccine, we have started a series where we interview members of the public on why they have had their vaccine and why they would encourage their loved ones and neighbours to have theirs.

Last week, we caught up with Joanna Duczynska, who is an English teacher and runs walking tours across Ealing and areas of London. She said: “I took the vaccine against COVID-19 because I think it is what you need to do. I personally was undergoing treatment then for a very nasty, malicious cancer. For me, every way to improve immunity to allow oneself to survive, was important.

“I think everyone should take the vaccine because this is the point: That the whole population would be vaccinated that we would all be resistant. Otherwise, the virus will not be going anywhere. Others accepting the vaccine is very important because those who have already accepted it, feel safe.

“I had minimal side effects in the form of a light reddening that quickly disappeared and a light pain in the shoulder. So, there is nothing to be afraid of and I think the pay-off is worth it.”

Joanna is leading a walking tour from Brentham Village to Pitshanger Lane on Sunday, 5 December between 1.30-4pm, and tickets can be purchased on Eventbrite.

Big weekender

It is easier than ever to get the vaccine this weekend, with additional vaccines being made across Ealing and North West London.

Anyone can walk-up and get their jab if they are over the age of 16 and have not had their vaccine yet.

You can get your second vaccine without the need to book if it has been eight weeks since your first jab.

If you are waiting for your booster jab and it has been six months and you are over the age of 40, you are also eligible.

And further good news is that there is additional capacity at the following centres this weekend for you to get any of the jabs you need:

• CP House, 97-107 Uxbridge Rd, London W5 5TL
  • Daily, 9am – 6pm
• Touchwood Pharmacy, 493 Yeading Lane, Northolt UB5 6LN
  • Every Saturday, 8.30am-1pm and 2-8pm
• Puri Pharmacy, 39 Western Road, Southall UB2 5HE
  • Wednesday to Saturday, 9.30-11am
• Temple Pharmacy, 110 Pitshanger Lane, London W5 1QP
  • Wednesday to Friday, 9.30am-4pm. Only for anyone 40+ for their first dose or anyone 8 weeks since their second dose
• South Ealing Pharmacy 186 South Ealing Road, London W5 4RJ
  • Daily walk-ins 9am-2pm 
• Mattock Lane Pharmacy, St Johns Parade, 8 Mattock Lane, London W13 9LL
  • Walk in clinics 9am-4pm except on Wednesday and Sunday.

There is a full list of vaccine centres and pharmacies in the local area and neighbouring boroughs on the North West London CCG website.