Flu and coronavirus vaccines offered to Surrey's homeless
Last updated 23rd Feb 2021
People who are homeless in Surrey are being offered the opportunity to receive flu and Covid jabs this winter.
Outreach flu clinic sessions have been up at places like hostels as well as using a mobile unit to try and help more people.
Many of those without a permanent address have longer term health conditions and they may come into contact with a large number of people so are at risk of contracting and passing on coronavirus.
The initiative is being run by Surrey Heartlands Integrated Care System (ICS) and local partners within the Surrey Homeless Multi-Agency Group.
Sinead Mooney, Surrey County Council Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Public Health said:
“People who have no permanent home are some of the most vulnerable in our county and we’re pleased to be able to offer them the Covid-19 vaccine.
"Thanks to outreach work in the community through partners and voluntary groups, we’ve been giving the flu jab to homeless people this winter and now we’ll be using a similar approach to support access to the Covid-19 jab.
“We’re committed to tackling health inequalities so that everyone in the community is able to thrive and no one is left behind. This is an example of how we’re working with partners to put that ambition into practice.”
Dr Charlotte Canniff, Clinical Chair, Surrey Heartlands CCG and local GP said:
“This year with Covid-19 circulating, Covid-19 immunisations are more important than ever to reduce infections, protect the vulnerable in our community, protect each other and protect the NHS. Local practices and support services are facing numerous additional pressures this winter and the actions of all those involved is nothing short of heroic.”
Corinna, from Practice Plus Group who were commissioned to deliver flu outreach clinics, said:
“It has been humbling and rewarding playing our part in protecting some of the most vulnerable people in society and further protecting the NHS at this difficult time.
"The people we are vaccinating are so grateful, and conscious that by doing this they are helping to protect others as well as themselves.
"We are looking forward to going out in the mobile unit to reach those who are not resident in a hostel.”