Case study: Volunteering to take part in a COVID-19 vaccine trial

Volunteering to take part in a COVID-19 vaccine trial

Earlier last year residents of Blackpool and the Fylde Coast were asked if they would like to take part in a clinical trial to help find a vaccine against COVID-19. The response from local people wishing to volunteer and help this research effort was overwhelming and inspiring. In a matter of days, well over five hundred volunteers had stepped forward and the clinical trial was able to recruit enough volunteers needed. One of those volunteers was Kaye, 74, who has shared some of her experience to help inform others who may be interested in volunteering for future studies.

Tell us a little about yourself?

I am a fit and healthy, retired civil servant, who likes nothing more than spending time with friends and family.

Why did you decide to take part in a COVID-19 vaccine trial?

I decided to take part in the trial because I've seen the impact of COVID-19 on friends and family, some of whom have had to shield because they are vulnerable. It has been devastating to see how many people haven't been able to see loved ones for such a long time, and taking part in a trial feels like a small way I can help with that.

What did taking part involve?

Taking part in the trial was easy. Firstly a screening process was conducted to determine my suitability to take part, this was followed by two injections three weeks apart. Completion of a diary for seven days followed each vaccination. I have the flu jab every year and it really didn't feel any different to that. The doctors and nurses were absolutely brilliant. They were so caring and thorough and explained everything to me, I felt very well looked after.

What would you say to others considering taking part in vaccine studies and COVID-19 research?

To anyone considering taking part in a study, I would say go for it. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain. When we have all felt helpless against such a terrible disease, this is something we can all do to make a difference.

In relation to research, what are your hopes for the future?

My hopes for the future are that the scientists continue to develop successful vaccines to combat diseases and eventually eradicate them.

Thanks to people like Kaye we now have seen the NHS offering a COVID-19 vaccine to those who are vulnerable from this terrible disease. It has been a huge achievement for the NHS, scientists and of course volunteers as without them none of this would be possible.

If you would like to know more about volunteering for vaccine research and would like to express an interest in taking part please click on the links below:

Important information for people interested in vaccine studies