People experiencing homelessness are likely to have poorer physical health, due to difficultly in accessing healthcare services, safe shelter, hygiene facilities and nutritious food.
Today, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), NHS England & Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) published an amendment to the annual flu letter, which states that people experiencing homelessness will now be offered a free flu vaccination on the NHS, beginning in Autumn 2026, in line with when the next season of flu vaccinations are available. The programme will cover people experiencing rough sleeping and those staying in homeless hostels or night shelters.
NHS England will issue further guidance on how individuals can access the flu vaccine in due course. Homelessness services should ensure they support individuals accessing their services to obtain the vaccine.
We have a number of resources and guidance on how to approach conversations about health, available here.