Views of 18-30 year-olds on COVID-19 vaccinations

Healthwatch Cheshire wanted to explore opinions and experiences of the COVID-19 vaccination for people living in the Cheshire area between 18-30 years old. The purpose was to provide feedback to those organising the COVID-19 vaccination process, in order to influence the messaging used in encouraging people to take up their vaccine. The survey elicited 130 responses between 22 June and 6 July 2021. Of the 82 people who answered demographics and characteristics questions, there was a fairly even split between the number of 18-25-year-olds and 26-30-year-olds responding. Respondents were predominantly female, with 50 women compared to 28 men.

Vaccine uptake

126 of 130 respondents had been offered the vaccine and out of 97 people who answered, 91 said had their first dose or intended to have it and 49 had received their second dose (48 intended to).

Positive comments: wanting to protect others, to feel less anxious about Covid, and a desire to get back to normal. Work or academic life also had a strong connection with getting vaccinated.

The majority of people told us that they trusted the NHS and health and care professionals most as reliable sources for vaccine information.

21 of 130 people told us they didn’t want the vaccine or were unsure. Reasons include: phobia of needles; the risks outweigh the benefits as some in this age group don’t feel particularly at risk; not enough information on short and long-term side effects, such as on fertility and pregnancy; belief that vaccine is still in a trial phase.

Booking vaccine appointments

Vast majority booked their vaccine after initially being contacted by text or letter. 72% said that they had then booked their vaccination online through the NHS website.

85% said the booked process was easy. Those with difficulties cited availability of appointments, not knowing their NHS number, and having to book both doses at once despite a lack of availability for their second dose.

Most popular venues to receive a vaccine are a vaccination centre, GP Practice, pharmacy, or walk-in centre.

Experiences of the vaccine process

Just over half of people vaccinated had received the Pfizer vaccine, and just over a quarter had received AstraZeneca.

Most people told us about friendly and welcoming staff, who looked after them well. People generally felt that they experienced a short waiting time and accessibility, both to and on the site of their vaccination was good. Some negatives mentioned include the logistics of getting a vaccine, such as parking, feeling that they waited a little too long to receive their vaccine, or appointments being far away.

A few reported pain, swelling or feeling unwell after their second dose of the vaccine.

Feedback from NHS Cheshire Clinical Commissioning Group

“This work by Healthwatch has allowed us to hear the voices and experiences of younger local residents which we will use to inform our communications messages and the way we deliver the vaccine.”