Why you may notice a change?

National guidance has recently clarified how consent for vaccinations must be obtained and recorded.

This is to ensure patients receive clear information and that consent is taken safely and consistently.

These changes do not affect:

• Your right to choose whether or not to have a vaccine

• The safety of vaccines

• Who is eligible for vaccination

They do affect how consent is managed and who is responsible for different parts of the process.

How consent for vaccination works

Before any vaccination, patients must be given information about:

• What the vaccine is for

• The benefits of vaccination

• Possible side effects and risks

• The option to ask questions or decline

This is called informed consent.

You may receive this information:

• In a leaflet

• Via a link sent by text or email

• On our website

• Or through discussion with a GP, nurse, or pharmacist

Who is responsible for consent?

Under national guidance:

• A registered healthcare professional (such as a GP, nurse, or pharmacist) is responsible for obtaining and recording informed consent.

• Healthcare Assistants (HCAs) are trained to administer vaccines, but they do not take informed consent.

This means:

• Informed consent is taken or confirmed by a registered clinician

• HCAs do not make the clinical decision about consent

What the Healthcare Assistant will do on the day

On the day of your vaccination, the Healthcare Assistant will:

• Check that informed consent has already been obtained

• Confirm that you are still happy to receive the vaccine

• Ask safety questions, such as about allergies, recent illness, or changes in your health

• Check for any new contraindications before giving the vaccine

• Involve a GP or nurse if there are any concerns or uncertainties

If you ask a question that needs a clinical decision, or if there is anything unclear, the HCA will pause the vaccination and involve a registered clinician before proceeding.

You can change your mind at any point, including at the appointment.

If you have had this vaccine before

If you have received the same vaccine in the past, this helps us understand that you may already be familiar with it.

However:

• Consent is still checked each time

• Information is updated regularly

• You will always be given the opportunity to ask questions or decline

Questions or concerns

Please contact the practice if you:

• Would like to speak to a GP, nurse, or pharmacist before your appointment

• Have a medical condition, allergy, or are unsure if the vaccine is suitable

• Need more information to help you decide

In Summary

• You will always receive information before vaccination

• A registered clinician is responsible for informed consent

• The HCA will check consent, confirm safety, and involve a clinician if needed

• Your choice, understanding, and safety are our priority

*CREDIT - Information adapted from St Peter’s Medical Centre, Brighton, UK