People aged 16 and over who are experiencing homelessness can access a free NHS flu vaccination this winter, helping them protect their health during the colder months.

From 1 October 2026, people who sleep outside, stay in homeless hostels or use night shelters can visit a participating community pharmacy or GP surgery and ask for their free NHS flu vaccination.

The initiative aims to make it easier for people experiencing homelessness to access essential preventative healthcare and reduce their risk of becoming seriously unwell with flu.

Flu can cause serious illness, particularly for people who may already face challenges accessing healthcare or managing their health. Getting vaccinated can help reduce the risk of severe illness and complications during the winter months.

How to access your free flu vaccination

If you are aged 16 or over and sleep outside, stay in a homeless hostel or use a night shelter, you may be eligible for a free NHS flu vaccination.

To access the service, visit a participating community pharmacy or GP surgery and ask for your free NHS flu vaccination. An eligibility card may be available from a service or organisation supporting people experiencing homelessness to help explain eligibility to the vaccination provider.

The card is not proof of homelessness and is not required to receive the vaccination. Vaccination providers should record the vaccination through the usual NHS flu vaccination pathway.

Protecting health this winter

Access to preventative healthcare is important for everyone. This winter, the initiative offers an opportunity for people experiencing homelessness to protect themselves against flu and take a positive step towards looking after their health and wellbeing.

For more information, speak to a local service supporting people experiencing homelessness or contact a participating GP surgery or community pharmacy.