Source · Select Committees · Public Accounts Committee
Recommendation 31
31
NHSE&I explained that it would give people “more than one channel and more than one...
Conclusion
NHSE&I explained that it would give people “more than one channel and more than one chance” to come forward for a vaccine. It expected to have to go back to people who did not come forward after being contacted to understand why they had not responded and give them another opportunity to take-up the vaccine.84 It similarly planned to use different ways to try to make sure that those who were vaccinated returned for their second dose, including pre-empting any issues by booking both appointments at the same time and putting in place procedures to identify and contact anyone who didn’t come to their second appointment.85 We were alarmed by reports of an individual calling on a house, charging money and administering a fake vaccination and how NHSE&I would ensure that such instances were not repeated. NHSE&I recognised the need for “great vigilance” on this, but that it was ultimately a matter for the police and the Home Office.86 81 Qq 87–88 82 Qq 81–86 83 Qq 79–80 84 Q 89 85 Q 59 86 Qq 11, 89 COVID-19: Planning for a vaccine Part 1 21
Government Response
Not Addressed
HM Government
Not Addressed
Accept. 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.