Source · Select Committees · Public Accounts Committee
Recommendation 6
6
Public confidence in the vaccine programme is crucial to its success yet some members of...
Conclusion
Public confidence in the vaccine programme is crucial to its success yet some members of the public and health professionals were confused by the messaging about when and how people can access a vaccine. The number of people who choose to have the vaccine will ultimately be determined by public trust in the vaccines. Clear communication is essential to enable the public, Parliament and health professionals understand what is going on within the vaccination programme, but is challenging because the situation is evolving so rapidly. We have previously found that a lack of information during the pandemic, or repeatedly changing and 8 COVID-19: Planning for a vaccine Part 1 updating guidance, can be confusing and frightening for those affected. NHSE&I had not yet developed a Frequently Asked Questions section for its website at the time of our evidence session nor has it put in place a rebuttal unit to deal with negative publicity or fake reporting about the vaccines. NHSE&I acknowledges it needs to be vigilant about the potential for fraudsters to take advantage of the more vulnerable in society in offering fake vaccines. Recommendation: NHSE&I and DHSC need to immediately develop clear and straightforward communication, including comprehensive FAQs, to help the public navigate the constantly changing situation. This should be publicised to the public and those who can help inform the public such as GPs, Clinical Commissioning Groups and MPs, as well as setting up a unit to quickly rebut false claims about the vaccines. COVID-19: Planning for a vaccine Part 1 9 1 Part 1 – Securing the UK’s access to potential vaccines
Government Response
Not Addressed
HM Government
Not Addressed
The government agrees with the Committee’s recommendation. Re commendation implemented The government has worked closely with NHS E/I, PHE, the MHRA and JCVI to communicate clearly to the public about the development and rollout of the authorised vaccines. Public information about the vaccine programme, the vaccines themselves, and relevant topics such as ingredients and side effects are available on both NHS.UK and GOV.UK websites, this content is supplemented by a sustained programme of proactive communications to keep the public informed using media, partners, professionals and creative content. Using regular research and polling, the government has developed an understanding of the needs and concerns of groups who are more vaccine hesitant and produced compelling vaccine positive information to address these. The communications campaign seeks to increase uptake within those groups who are or will soon be eligible to get the vaccine. Information, advice and FAQs are regularly shared with partners, local areas and community leaders, to enable clear and accurate information to reach the public from trusted and relevant messengers. There is cross government work in place through the Department of Culture, Media and Sport Disinformation Unit, the Cabinet Office’s Rapid Rebuttal Unit and the DHSC working with partners across the health family to ensure accurate information is in circulation to tackle myths and misinformation.