Vaccine Project - NWL Winter Campaign

Healthwatch Ealing was commissioned to explore the experiences and attitudes of people about uptake of seasonal vaccinations.  They spoke to 170 people.

The conversations revealed mixed awareness about how to book flu vaccinations—just over half knew the process, while many remained unsure. Confusion existed about whether GPs still offer flu vaccines, partly due to unclear text reminders without booking links. Awareness of the nasal spray flu vaccine for children was particularly low, highlighting communication gaps about vaccine options for younger age groups. Motivations for vaccination were mainly personal health protection and safeguarding vulnerable family members. Trusted advice from healthcare professionals, especially GPs, strongly influenced uptake. Conversely, non-uptake reasons included beliefs that vaccines were unnecessary for healthy individuals, difficulties following through despite intent, and concerns about side effects or prior negative experiences. Most participants had received the COVID-19 vaccine, motivated by self-protection and the pandemic’s risks. Those unvaccinated cited mistrust, competing priorities, reliance on natural immunity, or misunderstandings about vaccine effectiveness, sometimes due to personal COVID-19 experiences.

Participants' general views on vaccinations reflected a balance between recognising the historical importance of vaccines and harbouring concerns around side effects, safety, and the evolving messaging about the need for COVID-19 boosters post-pandemic. Some expressed uncertainty about whether annual COVID-19 vaccinations were necessary now that the emergency phase of the pandemic has passed.

A recurring theme was the desire for better information about what happens after vaccination, including transparent discussions about common side effects, their normal course, and the ingredients of vaccines. Participants indicated that clear, honest communication could help address hesitancy, though some individuals remained firmly opposed to vaccination regardless of additional information.

From these insights, borough-level recommendations include clearer, more accessible booking information via GPs and pharmacies, with direct booking links and multilingual materials. Raising awareness of children’s flu vaccines and reinforcing COVID-19 booster importance should be part of targeted community campaigns. Empowering healthcare professionals and community leaders to provide consistent advice and address concerns is vital. Expanding flexible, walk-in, and pop-up clinics in trusted local settings can improve access, especially for groups with lower uptake. This project highlighted the value of direct engagement with underserved communities through in-person events that provide information, answer questions, and connect people to broader health services. Ongoing local involvement, tailored messaging, and resident feedback will be key to building trust and improving vaccine uptake across the borough.