OIC offers thanks for “herculean” Covid Testing Centre effort

As the doors close on the Covid Testing Centre in Kirkwall, Orkney Health and Care Chief Officer, Stephen Brown, has commended the “herculian” effort put in by staff running the facility over the past 2.5 years.

NHS Orkney announced the official closure today, Friday 30 September, prompting tributes to those behind the effort.

Stephen Brown said: “Our colleagues within NHS Orkney were given just seven days to have the centre up and running providing 24-hour access to patients who had symptoms of Covid back in March 2020 – the year the world changed for many.

“Staff had to evolve as circumstances and demands changed during what were unprecedented times for us all. I offer my heartfelt thanks to all those involved for what has been a herculian effort. All involved should be immensely proud of their achievements.”

Hayley Green, the Council’s Corporate Director of Neighbourhood Services and Infrastructure and vice-chair of the Orkney Local Emergency Coordination Group added her congratulations to the team.

“Those behind the scenes co-ordinating the effort and those on the frontline were not just employees doing their job, but members of our community going home to their own families during what was very uncertain times, particularly during the early days of the pandemic.

“Far from shying away, staff and volunteers rallied and carried out their roles admirably. The official closure of the centre marks another milestone in our Covid journey – a journey that for some is not over and a journey which none of us will forget.

“Well done to everyone.”