Private hospitals will be required to ensure frontline workers are fully vaccinated by the spring under plans announced by health and social care secretary Sajid Javid this afternoon.
The rules will apply to health and social care workers who have direct, face-to-face contact with people while providing care – such as doctors, nurses, dentists and domiciliary care workers, unless they are exempt.
They cover the whole Care Quality Commission-regulated health and social care sector including private hospitals.
Ancillary staff such as porters or receptionists who may have social contact with patients but are not directly involved in their care are also included in the vaccine mandate.
According to government’s consultation outcome document, individuals exempt from the regulations include those aged under the age of 18, those who are clinically exempt from Covid vaccination, those who have taken part or are currently taking part in a clinical trial for a Covid vaccine, those who do not have direct, face-to-face contact with a service user, and those providing care as part of a shared lives agreement.
While the requirements come into force in the spring, subject to the passage of the regulations through Parliament, government revealed there will be a 12-week grace period between the regulations being made and coming into force to allow those who have not yet been vaccinated to have both doses.
Enforcement would begin from 1 April, subject to parliamentary approval.
Commenting on the measures, Javid (pictured) said: “Vaccines save lives and patient safety is paramount. Many of the people being treated in hospitals or cared for at home are the most vulnerable to Covid-19. We have a responsibility to give patients and staff the best possible protection.
“We have consulted closely with the sector and will introduce new regulations to ensure people working in healthcare are vaccinated from next spring.
“I want thank everyone who works in health and social care for the amazing work they do. If you haven’t come forward for your jab yet, please do so. We are determined to support you in this process.”
Government also confirmed that while the policy will not apply to Covid boosters or the flu vaccine at this time, the government will keep this under review, and if necessary, bring forward amendments to the regulations.