Annexe A: information and resources to support implementation the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI)
Published 14 July 2026
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This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/pneumococcal-vaccination-expansion-of-eligibility-to-people-experiencing-homelessness/annexe-a-information-and-resources-to-support-implementation-the-joint-committee-on-vaccination-and-immunisation-jcvi
The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI)
People experiencing homelessness (PEH) carry a high burden of both diagnosed and undiagnosed chronic conditions, leading to premature mortality and frequent use of emergency healthcare. Many live in overcrowded communal environments which increase the risk of transmission and outbreaks of acute respiratory infections. Access to routine healthcare is often limited, and vaccine uptake is low, meaning that effective delivery relies on outreach approaches and specialist services to improve engagement and delivery.
At the June 2024 Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) meeting, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) presented additional analyses, including hospital episode statistics (HES) data showing influenza/pneumonia was the second most common cause of unplanned admissions among homeless males, alongside chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Data demonstrated very high levels of comorbidity among PEH, with 18- to 24-year-olds experiencing homelessness having comorbidity rates (37%) comparable to the general population aged over 65 (around 40%).
The JCVI discussed and agreed that, when considering a potential age cut off for vaccination, it might be more practical to offer universal vaccination due to the challenges and time required to identify those with chronic illness in outreach settings in England. The JCVI further concluded that PEH face similar risks of hospitalisation and death from influenza and pneumococcal disease as people aged 65 and over.
As a result, the JCVI advised that seasonal influenza and pneumococcal vaccinations should be routinely offered to people experiencing homelessness, defined as rough sleepers and those living in hostels or night shelters.
Funding and service arrangements
Pneumococcal vaccination requirements are set out in the routine adult immunisation schedule within the Statement of Financial Entitlements (SFE), which all GPs must offer to their eligible registered patients. The vaccine will carry an Item of Service (IoS) fee of £10.06.
Accurate and timely recording of all vaccines given, and good management of all associated documentation, is essential as per the standards set out in the General Medical Services (GMS) Regulations, SFE and NHSE GP contract vaccination and immunisation services: standards and core contractual requirements.
Vaccine coverage data collection
Local-authority level vaccine coverage will be based on data automatically uploaded via participating GP IT suppliers to the ImmForm website on a quarterly basis.
The latest vaccine uptake data for England will be available on GOV.UK.
Centrally supplied vaccines
PCV20 (Prevenar 20®) is available for providers to order online via the ImmForm website. See the ImmForm help sheet for information on registering for an ImmForm account. Providers should ensure that local stocks of vaccine are rotated in fridges so that wastage is minimised. It is recommended that practices hold no more than 2 to 4 weeks’ worth of stock. PCV20 (Prevenar 20®) is supplied as a pack of 10 doses in pre-filled syringes without needles.
Patient group directions (PGDs)
An updated PCV20 PGD template will be produced by UKHSA for NHS England areas to authorise for their commissioned services.
Immunisation Against Infectious Disease (the Green Book)
The Pneumococcal: the green book, chapter 25 will be updated to reflect the change.
Training and information resources for healthcare practitioners
The Information for Healthcare Practitioners guidance document will be updated and made available on the Pneumococcal vaccination programmes for infants, adults and individuals at increased clinical risk collection.
Patient information materials
The following resources will be available to order free of charge from Find Health Publications:
All users of Find Health Publications need to register to receive deliveries. If you register as a health professional, you can order 500 to 1,000 copies on the website. For larger quantities, call 0300 123 1002.
Consent
Guidance on informed consent can be found in chapter 2 of the Green Book.
Reporting suspected adverse reactions
PCV20 (Prevenar 20®) is a black triangle product and is subject to additional monitoring by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Authority (MHRA).
Healthcare professionals and members of the public are asked to report suspected adverse reactions through the online MHRA Yellow Card scheme, by downloading the Yellow Card app, or by calling 0800 731 6789 between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday.