Skip to content 
The jabs will be available for those who sleep on the street, in hostels or in night shelters.
The NHS is undergoing a flurry of changes for the first time in its history under Labor Party Prime Minister Andy Burnham. The NHS says ten s of thousands of homeless people are getting a flu shot for free on the NHS for the first time.
Makerfield MP Mr Burnham said the initiative would protect “some of the most vulnerable people from potentially deadly infections”. The change comes after Mr Burnham made homelessness a key priority under his government.
His premiership began this summer when he succeeded Sir Keir Starmer in Number 10 Downing Street. The jabs will be available for those who sleep on the street, in hostels or in night shelters.
READ MORE HMRC to change two million State Pension tax codes and send invoices
NHS England will deploy mobile vans and pop-up clinics in high-density areas. Dr Amanda Doyle, NHS National Director for Primary Care and Community Services, said: “Winter hits particularly hard for people experiencing homelessness, who can face greater health risks from flu and other respiratory viruses.
“That’s why it’s so important that they can get the same protection as other vulnerable groups, with the NHS offering free vaccinations at convenient locations this winter.
“So if you’re experiencing homelessness, you don’t need proof of address to register with a GP, you can use a day centre, hostel or the GP practice’s own address. Whatever your health needs, the NHS is there for you.”
Mr Burnham said: “No one should be sleeping rough, but while people are on the road we have a duty to keep them safe. This NHS initiative will provide vital vaccinations, protecting some of the most vulnerable people from potentially deadly infections.
“We deliver now for people in crisis, while changing the system for the long term, so that everyone has a way off the streets forever.”
Health Secretary Yvette Cooper said: “No one should face flu, pneumonia or other serious illness this winter simply because they don’t have a safe place to call home.
“Vaccines play a vital role in protecting the most vulnerable in society, including those who are currently homeless.
“Together we can save lives, support the most vulnerable, and ensure our NHS is there for everyone who needs it this winter.”
