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{{org_field_name}}

Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

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Immunisation of People Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that all individuals supported by {{org_field_name}} are encouraged and supported to access immunisations relevant to their personal health needs, age, and risk profile. Immunisation plays a critical role in protecting people from preventable diseases, supporting public health, and maintaining service continuity. This policy ensures compliance with Regulation 12 – Safe Care and Treatment, Regulation 9 – Person-Centred Care, and Regulation 13 – Safeguarding from Abuse and Improper Treatment.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all individuals supported by {{org_field_name}} who may benefit from immunisation, as well as all care staff involved in the planning, coordination, and support of vaccination processes. It also applies to collaboration with external healthcare professionals such as GPs, community nurses, and immunisation teams.

3. Related Policies

• CH07 – Person-Centred Care Policy
• CH11 – Safe Care and Treatment Policy
• CH13 – Safeguarding Adults from Abuse and Improper Treatment Policy
• CH17 – Infection Prevention and Control Policy
• CH34 – Confidentiality and Data Protection (GDPR) – Service User Policy
• CH39 – Mental Capacity and Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards Policy

4. Policy Statement and Responsibilities

Commitment to Supporting Immunisation
{{org_field_name}} recognises the importance of immunisation in promoting individual and public health. We actively support the national immunisation programme and work in partnership with health professionals to promote vaccination among the people we support, particularly those who are vulnerable, elderly, or living with chronic conditions. This includes seasonal flu vaccines, COVID-19 boosters, shingles, pneumococcal vaccines, and others as advised by Public Health England and local NHS services.

Risk Assessment and Identification
During the initial assessment and ongoing reviews, the Registered Manager or designated care coordinator will:

• Identify individuals who may be eligible or recommended for specific vaccines
• Document any medical history, allergies, or contraindications relevant to immunisation
• Assess risks related to declining or missing immunisation (e.g. exposure to flu or COVID-19 in communal settings)
  This information is included in the individual’s care plan and reviewed regularly.

Consent and Capacity
In accordance with Regulation 11 – Need for Consent and the Mental Capacity Act 2005, {{org_field_name}} ensures that immunisation is only pursued with valid informed consent.

• If the person has capacity, the care worker will provide accessible information and support their decision
• If the person lacks capacity, a best interest decision is made in collaboration with family members or advocates
• All discussions, decisions, and outcomes are clearly documented
  Staff are trained in supporting choice, using plain language and communication aids where necessary

Coordination with Healthcare Professionals
{{org_field_name}} works in partnership with GPs, district nurses, community health teams, and local immunisation programmes to:

• Facilitate vaccination appointments at home or in the community
• Share relevant health information, with consent, to support safe administration
• Coordinate schedules for seasonal or outbreak-related immunisations (e.g. flu clinics)
• Respond promptly to national alerts and public health guidance on emerging health risks
  The care team remains involved before and after vaccination to monitor for side effects and provide reassurance.

Supporting People Through the Process
Care staff provide person-centred support by:

• Preparing individuals emotionally and practically for vaccination appointments
• Offering information in accessible formats
• Supporting with transport if needed or helping access mobile services
• Providing comfort and reassurance during and after the procedure
• Monitoring and reporting any adverse effects or concerns to the GP and Registered Manager
  All interactions are documented in the care record and reviewed to improve future support.

Record-Keeping and Confidentiality
All immunisation status and updates are recorded in the individual’s care plan and securely stored in line with CH34 – Confidentiality and Data Protection (GDPR). This includes:

• Date and type of vaccine received
• Provider of the vaccine (e.g. NHS nurse, GP)
• Any reactions or follow-up needed
  This information is reviewed regularly to ensure ongoing protection and readiness for future immunisations.

Infection Prevention and Safeguarding
Immunisation contributes to infection prevention across the service. By supporting uptake, {{org_field_name}} protects not only the individual but also staff and other service users. Refusal to vaccinate is respected, but staff must assess and manage any increased infection risks as part of the risk management plan. Any concerns about refusal based on coercion, misinformation, or neglect are escalated as safeguarding concerns under Regulation 13.

Staff Training and Guidance
All staff receive training on:

• The importance of immunisation in health and social care
• How to communicate vaccine benefits clearly and respectfully
• Legal requirements around consent and capacity
• Recognising and responding to vaccine hesitancy or refusal
  Refresher training is provided annually or when national immunisation campaigns are launched.

Monitoring and Audit
The Registered Manager is responsible for:

• Reviewing immunisation records quarterly
• Auditing consent processes
• Ensuring referral pathways are functioning
• Monitoring take-up rates and identifying barriers to access
  Findings are discussed during governance meetings and used to improve care planning and service quality, in line with Regulation 17 – Good Governance.

5. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or in response to changes in national immunisation guidance, legislation, or public health advice. The Registered Manager will ensure updates are disseminated to all staff and embedded into practice.

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Responsible Person: {{org_field_registered_manager_first_name}} {{org_field_registered_manager_last_name}}
Reviewed on: {{last_update_date}}
Next Review Date: {{next_review_date}}
Copyright © {{current_year}} – {{org_field_name}}. All rights reserved.