Health teams in the South West will soon see new targeted vaccination outreach services launched.
The programme, set to begin in September and supported by three-year contracts, aims to improve vaccine uptake in underserved areas with lower coverage, particularly those facing high deprivation or barriers to routine healthcare.
The outreach services will operate alongside existing delivery models, including GP surgeries, pharmacies and school immunisation teams, but with a focused community approach.
Dr Georgina Angel, consultant in public health and screening and immunisation lead for NHS England South West, said: "Vaccinations save lives.
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"But we know that access is not the same for everyone, and some people face additional barriers when engaging with health care and vaccinations.
"These new outreach services are an exciting and significant step forward in bringing services more closely in line with the needs of local communities."
The outreach model will include direct engagement to help people understand their eligibility, answer questions, and build confidence in vaccines.
Services will also be tailored to remove practical barriers to access.
Common challenges include travel difficulties, availability of appointments, lack of trusted information, language needs, digital exclusion, and previous negative healthcare experiences.
Dr Angel said: "Building trust and developing stronger relationships is at the heart of service design, improving access and supporting vaccine conversations where it is needed most."
The teams will use local data and community feedback to identify areas most in need of support as part of the NHS Vaccination Strategy.
The targeted approach also supports the broader aims of the 10-Year Health Plan by focusing on prevention and reducing health inequalities.
Seven providers have been commissioned to deliver vaccination outreach services across the South West, working in partnership with their respective Integrated Care Board regions.
Dorset Health Care University NHS Foundation Trust will lead the service for the Dorset Integrated Care Board area.
The outreach teams will work closely with primary care and community health providers to ensure a coordinated approach.
The contracts will run until 2029.
The services form part of ongoing efforts across the NHS to increase vaccination coverage, particularly in communities where take-up remains below national targets.
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