CHW202-Immunisation of People Policy
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Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}
Immunisation of People Policy
1. Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to ensure that all individuals supported by {{org_field_name}} are offered appropriate immunisations in line with national guidance to protect their health and reduce the risk of infection outbreaks within the care setting. This policy supports compliance with the Regulation and Inspection of Social Care (Wales) Act 2016, the Public Health (Control of Disease) Act 1984, the Health Protection (Notification) Regulations 2010, and guidance issued by Public Health Wales and Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW). Immunisation is a key part of infection prevention and control and contributes to the overall well-being, safety, and resilience of our residents, particularly those who are elderly, frail, or have complex health needs.
2. Scope
This policy applies to all service users receiving care and support from {{org_field_name}}, including permanent residents, individuals receiving respite or short-term care, and those under palliative or complex care arrangements. It also applies to care staff responsible for supporting residents in accessing health services, liaising with healthcare professionals, and recording immunisation history. While immunisation of staff is covered under our Occupational Health and Infection Control policies, this policy specifically relates to the immunisation of the people we support.
3. Related Policies
This policy should be read in conjunction with:
CHW11 – Safe Care and Treatment Policy
CHW13 – Safeguarding Adults from Abuse and Improper Treatment Policy
CHW17 – Infection Prevention and Control Policy
CHW18 – Risk Management and Assessment Policy
CHW34 – Confidentiality and Data Protection Policy
CHW36 – Initial Assessment and Care Planning Policy
4. Policy Statement and Implementation
A. Commitment to Preventative Care
{{org_field_name}} is committed to promoting access to preventative healthcare, including immunisations, as part of our duty to support the health and well-being of the individuals we care for. We recognise that residents in care homes are more vulnerable to infectious diseases such as influenza, COVID-19, pneumococcal infection, shingles, and others. Timely immunisation helps to prevent illness, reduce hospital admissions, and protect the wider care home community. We ensure that no individual is disadvantaged due to disability, cognitive impairment, or lack of family support when it comes to receiving immunisations.
B. Initial Assessment and Consent
Upon admission, every individual’s immunisation history is reviewed as part of their initial assessment and recorded in their personal care plan (CHW36). This includes checking for previous vaccinations such as influenza, pneumococcal, shingles, COVID-19, and hepatitis B if relevant. Where gaps are identified or where regular boosters are due, the Registered Manager or designated senior staff member liaises with the individual’s GP or practice nurse to arrange vaccination. Informed consent is always obtained prior to any immunisation. Where an individual lacks the capacity to provide consent, a best interest decision is made in line with the Mental Capacity Act and documented accordingly.
C. Coordination with Health Services
{{org_field_name}} works in close collaboration with GPs, district nursing teams, and local Public Health Wales teams to ensure that residents have timely access to immunisations. We maintain an immunisation schedule and follow annual vaccination programmes as guided by national NHS campaigns and local health board communications. Flu vaccines are typically administered between September and March, and COVID-19 boosters as per NHS guidance. Pneumococcal and shingles vaccinations are offered in line with age and clinical eligibility criteria. Our team ensures all appointments are arranged, transport or in-house administration is facilitated, and follow-ups are conducted if any vaccinations are missed or declined.
D. Consent, Refusal, and Best Interest Decisions
We respect the autonomy and rights of all residents in making decisions about immunisations. Individuals are given clear, accessible information about the purpose, benefits, and possible side effects of each vaccine. Where consent is declined, this decision is respected and documented. Where the individual lacks capacity, a best interest assessment is conducted involving family members, advocates, and healthcare professionals where necessary. The outcome is recorded and regularly reviewed, especially if the person’s condition or vaccination programme changes.
E. Record Keeping and Monitoring
All immunisations administered are recorded in the individual’s care records, including the date, type of vaccine, batch number (where available), location of administration, and the name of the administering clinician. These records are treated as part of the person’s medical record and stored securely in accordance with CHW34 – Confidentiality and Data Protection Policy. The Registered Manager or designated Infection Control Lead maintains a register of immunisation status for all service users to ensure that follow-ups and boosters are not missed. Immunisation status is reviewed during care plan reviews and updated accordingly.
F. Managing Vaccine Side Effects and Allergies
Staff are trained to monitor for any adverse reactions or side effects following immunisation. This includes signs such as rash, swelling, fever, or anaphylactic symptoms. Any concerns are reported immediately to clinical staff and documented in the individual’s care record. Where known allergies or contraindications exist, these are flagged clearly in the resident’s care plan and discussed with the GP prior to administration. Staff follow emergency response procedures where necessary and notify healthcare professionals as appropriate.
G. Infection Prevention During Vaccination Campaigns
During group vaccination campaigns such as annual flu clinics or COVID-19 boosters, infection control protocols are strictly followed. This includes hand hygiene, PPE, use of separate clinical areas, and cleaning of surfaces between each resident. Residents who are unwell at the time of a scheduled vaccine are reviewed by a clinician to determine suitability, and vaccination is delayed if necessary until safe to proceed.
H. Staff Roles and Responsibilities
The Registered Manager is responsible for overseeing the immunisation programme for all residents, ensuring coordination with health services, maintaining records, and reporting as required. The Infection Control Lead, {{org_field_infection_control_lead_name}}, supports vaccine promotion and staff training. Care staff are responsible for identifying individuals due for vaccination, providing reassurance to residents, monitoring for side effects, and reporting any issues. Training in immunisation awareness is included in infection control updates and induction training for all new staff.
I. Data Protection and Confidentiality
All immunisation data is managed in accordance with CHW34 – Confidentiality and Data Protection Policy. Information is only shared with relevant healthcare professionals, regulatory bodies, or family members where appropriate and with the resident’s consent or legal basis. Immunisation records are stored securely and form part of the individual’s overall care documentation.
J. Auditing and Continuous Improvement
The immunisation programme is reviewed annually by the Registered Manager and included in our Quality of Care Review process. This includes an audit of vaccination rates, missed opportunities, resident refusals, and any adverse incidents. Lessons learned are used to improve future coordination and communication. CIW may request to see immunisation records and evidence of immunisation practices as part of their inspections, and we ensure this is readily available and up to date.
5. Policy Review
This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if changes are made to immunisation guidance by Public Health Wales, NHS Wales, or CIW. The Registered Manager is responsible for ensuring this policy reflects the most current clinical guidance and best practice.
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}}
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