November 3, 2026
Tens of thousands of people experiencing homelessness can now get vital protection from potentially serious winter viruses with a free NHS vaccine.
From this week, NHS teams and charity partners will offer crucial flu and pneumococcal disease vaccines for people sleeping rough or using homeless hostels or night-shelters as part of a new national programme.
NHS pop-up clinics and mobile vans will also be established in homeless hotspots to ensure everyone has the best chance to get protected against winter diseases.
These patients often face increased health risks from these diseases due to exposure, underlying health conditions, poor living conditions, poor nutrition, high levels of stress and limited access to healthcare.
