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About the mandatory Covid-19 staff vaccination

The Government recently announced that NHS staff will need to have received (and be able to evidence that they have received) a minimum of two Covid-19 vaccinations by 1 April 2022 if they are to continue working in a healthcare setting, unless they have a valid medical exemption.

The regional definition of roles in-scope of this legislation is as follows:

'The requirement to be fully vaccinated against Covid-19 under this Policy applies to all staff, students, volunteers, bank and agency workers, honorary contract holders, and contractors who are carrying out CQC regulated activities, and have direct face-to-face contact with people while providing care. It also applies to staff, students, volunteers, bank and agency workers, honorary contract holders, and contractors who have ‘social contact’ with patients/service users albeit not directly involved in their care. This includes contact in non-clinical areas such as restaurants and corridors.'

We have written to all colleagues the Trust has, to date, been unable to evidence having had two Covid-19 vaccinations, and understand there are several reasons why this might be the case, including:

  • The records held by the Trust are not up to date
  • National records are incorrect
  • You are seeking or have been given medical exemption
  • You have had your vaccination administered overseas
  • You are yet to book a first vaccination and / or have your second dose
  • You do not currently wish to have the vaccine.

Timescale

There are time restrictions associated with the new legislation, and we ask that any colleague who has received a letter/email regarding this responds as quickly as possible.

The government regulations will come into effect from 1 April 2022, which means unvaccinated colleagues need to have had their first dose by 3 February 2022, to ensure they have received their second dose by the 1 April 2022 deadline.

We have prepared a document covering a range of questions we feel colleagues and managers may have about this subject.

This FAQs document covers:

  • The legal framework
  • The workers covered
  • Timescales for the vaccination
  • Access to the vaccination
  • Further guidance, advice and support

 

Mandatory staff Covid-19 vaccinations - FAQs

 

This document is prepared based on current information and will be reviewed as further information becomes available.

 

 

 

 

Managers informal conversation guide - Covid-19 staff vaccinations

Form B - Mandatory Vaccination Record of Discussion Form

Other useful tools

The phase 2 national guidance has been shared this week (w/b 24 January) and can be found here.  

We would encourage you to discuss your specific role and circumstances with your line manager in the first instance. Further guidance is available through the following:

People Services

Employee Relations Helpline: 01332 564856 (Option 2) or 07785 414 129 or alternatively E: dchst.employeerelations@nhs.net

Covid 19 Vaccines

Health and wellbeing support available now in DCHS


NHSEI - wellbeing and support offer

NHSEI has put in place a comprehensive package of wellbeing support for health and social care workers which is available to all primary, secondary and tertiary care organisations. 

The support package includes: • a dedicated health and care staff support service including confidential support via phone and text message • free access to a range of mental health apps • a range of counselling and talking therapies • online resources, guidance, and webinars

If you have not yet received your first or second Covid-19 vaccination you can make an appointment via the National Booking System, to book your vaccine at a location suitable for you.

Please visit: Book or manage a coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination - NHS (www.nhs.uk)