Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust is supporting Big Week 2026, an initiative aimed at making it easier for eligible individuals to receive their free NHS flu vaccine. The campaign, running from Monday 9 to Friday 16 November, involves NHS teams, local councils, public health officials, community groups, and voluntary organisations working collaboratively to provide vaccinations at accessible community locations throughout London.
The initiative comes at a critical time, as NHS hospitals have experienced significant pressure on beds. Preventing flu from exacerbating existing challenges over the winter months is a key priority. While many have already been vaccinated, Big Week aims to significantly increase protection levels before winter fully sets in.
Flu is described as more than just a common cold; it is a serious respiratory infection that can lead to severe complications such as pneumonia and breathing problems, potentially requiring hospitalisation. Individuals at higher risk of severe illness include young children, older adults, pregnant women, and those with long-term health conditions. Last winter, flu contributed to 3,800 deaths in England, though vaccinations are estimated to have prevented a substantial number of hospital admissions and deaths.
“"A huge amount of work goes into making sure the flu vaccine is safe. We wouldn’t be offering it as widely as we do if we weren’t confident in its safety. It’s important to get your flu vaccination every year because the virus changes over time and our immunity doesn’t last forever. Getting vaccinated each year tops up your protection, helping you stay well through winter and reducing the risk of passing flu on to your family, loved ones and other people who may be more vulnerable."
Eligibility for the free NHS flu vaccine includes individuals aged 65 and over, those aged 18 to 64 with certain long-term health conditions, pregnant women, care home residents, main carers, individuals living with someone who has a weakened immune system, and those aged 16 and over who are rough sleeping or staying in homeless accommodation. Frontline health and social care workers can also receive the vaccine through their employers.
The vaccine is particularly recommended for people with long-term health conditions affecting breathing (like asthma or COPD), heart conditions, chronic kidney disease, liver disease, certain neurological conditions (Parkinson's, MS), learning disabilities, diabetes, weakened immune systems, spleen problems, and those with a BMI of 40 or above. Those unsure of their eligibility are advised to speak to their GP surgery or specialist.
Various vaccination opportunities are available across London. These include contacting GP surgeries for appointments, and numerous drop-in sessions and events. For example, Age UK London is hosting a Q&A on staying healthy over winter on 11 November at Lumen United Reform Church, London WC1H 9RS. The Central Mosque of Brent will offer free flu and COVID-19 vaccinations on Friday, 13 November 2026. Christ Church CofE Primary School will host vaccinations on Monday 7 December 2026.
In Harrow, free flu and COVID-19 vaccination sessions are being held in partnership with Shaftesbury Pharmacy and the NHS at various community centres, including My Yard Northolt Road Community Centre (Monday 9 November), New Bentley NRC (Wednesday 11 November), and Belmont Hall Community Centre (Thursday 12 November). Pop-up clinics are also scheduled for Thursday 19 November at King Street, W6 9XY.
Hillingdon Maternity Vaccination Hub offers continuous weekday drop-in sessions for pregnant individuals seeking information or vaccinations for whooping cough, flu, and COVID-19. Puri Pharmacy branches in Southall and Hillingdon also provide walk-in clinics. Pop-up sessions are scheduled for Wednesday 27 November at Dalgarno Trust and Thursday 5 December at Venture Centre, offering health checks alongside immunisations.
Hounslow’s Health Outreach Team (HOT) provides community-based services, including flu and Covid vaccinations, blood pressure checks, BMI assessments, and advice on various health concerns. Residents can visit the HOT at Treaty Centre, Hounslow, TW3 1ES, or use their mobile clinic bus, which visits various locations across Hounslow. The bus will be at Hounslow Heath car park on Wednesday 4 November, and various other locations throughout November.
