Thousands of UK firefighters are being readied to rollout the Covid-19 vaccine, the Home Office have confirmed.

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) have been in dialogue with the Government throughout the pandemic, and many firefighters have already assisted in the fight against Covid.

NFCC Chair Roy Wilsher said : “For months, dedicated and skilled firefighters across the entire UK have gone above and beyond to assist those who need help the most. 

“We have thousands of firefighters who are ready, willing and able to take on more in the fight against COVID-19. Today’s announcement means thousands of firefighters are being equipped to support one of the biggest means to combat the virus and reduce its devastating impacts”.

The announcement means that UK firefighters will now be able to continue with mass testing, assisting ambulance services and vaccination.

Minister for Fire Lord Greenhalgh said: “Since the start of the pandemic, firefighters and FRS staff have played a crucial role in supporting the fight against coronavirus.

“From delivering essential medical supplies and transporting patients to hospital, to providing training on preventing infections to care home staff, our fire service has met the challenges of this pandemic admirably.

“I am immensely proud of their efforts – they have proved themselves to be ready, willing and able to support the national effort to protect the NHS and save lives.”