The following questions have been raised by members and we hope the responses outlined in this briefing, which have been drafted after taking legal advice, provide some clarity, These recommendations are by no means exhaustive nor conclusive as the details of the legalisation currently are very high level.

Uptake of the COVID-19 vaccine is currently optional, as is the uptake of all other vaccines in the UK, but it is strongly encouraged amongst frontline health and social care staff. In considering these policy changes, Ministers must comply with the equality legislation, including the Public Sector Equality Duty (PSED) under Section 149 of the Equality Act 2010, their general duties under the National Health Service Act 2006, which are included in Sections 1 to 1G, and the Family Test.

Disclaimer: The Association does not provide legal or financial advice and providers must seek this themselves. We will provide members with updates based on official Government guidance as and when we have greater clarity.