Northamptonshire (West)

ASK                              

• “How do you feel about vaccinations at the moment?”
• “Have you had your flu or COVID-19 vaccine this year?”
• “Is anyone in your household due for a routine vaccine?”
• “Would it be helpful to talk through any questions you have?”

ASSESSS

• Explore understanding and needs:
• Awareness: Do they know which vaccines they’re eligible for—flu, COVID-19, shingles, MMR, childhood vaccinations?
• Concerns: Are there worries about safety, side effects, or past experiences?
• Access barriers: transport, mobility, work hours, booking difficulties.
• Risk factors: long-term conditions, pregnancy, caring responsibilities, age.
• Use non-judgmental listening and acknowledge their views.

ACT

• Support with simple, practical next steps:
• Encourage checking eligibility and booking via GP practice or local pharmacy.
• Suggest speaking with a pharmacist, practice nurse or GP about any concerns.
• Share trusted information to help them make an informed decision.
• Help them plan how to access the vaccine if logistics are a barrier.

Conversation tips

Why It Matters? Vaccinations protect individuals and communities from serious illnesses such as flu, COVID-19, measles, whooping cough and others. A brief, supportive conversation can help people feel informed and confident about getting vaccinated.

• Keep the tone supportive, not persuasive.
• Offer information—not pressure.
• Normalise questions: “Lots of people wonder about that…”
• Reinforce benefits: protecting themselves, family, and vulnerable people.
• Focus on what matters to them (health, family, work, wellbeing).

Resources

• West Northamptonshire Council Health & Wellbeing pages – local guidance on flu, COVID-19 and routine vaccinations.
• GP Practices / Primary Care Networks – booking and eligibility.
• Local Pharmacies – flu and COVID-19 vaccination services (seasonal).
• NHS– Vaccinations and NHS App – check records and book appointments