Community Vaccination

Winter vaccinations

The NHS encourages eligible groups—such as older adults, pregnant women, young children, those with certain health conditions and carers—to get vaccinated as early as possible in the season.

Winter Flu

Influenza (flu) vaccination is important because, while flu is unpleasant for most people, it can be dangerous and even life-threatening for some, particularly those with certain health conditions.  Getting vaccinated helps protect individuals from flu and relieves the pressure on the NHS and social care services.

In the UK, the flu vaccination season typically starts in September and runs until March, with the main push for vaccinations occurring between September and early December. This ensures people are protected before flu activity peaks, usually between December and March.

COVID

Viruses change, and protection fades over time.  The COVID-19 vaccine helps protect against COVID-19 virus, which can be a serious or life-threatening illness.  People at increased risk of getting seriously ill from COVID-19 are invited to receive the vaccine, which the NHS usually offers in spring and early winter.

Getting the COVID vaccine can help reduce your risk of getting severe symptoms and help you recover more quickly if you catch COVID. It protects against different types of the COVID virus and can help reduce your risk of being hospitalised if you become infected.

Winter 2025 Vaccination Clinics

The Surgery will be offering all eligible patients the opportunity to have their COVID vaccination alongside their Winter Flu Vaccination.  We are finalising our Winter Vaccination clinics and if your patient record indicates you are eligible you will receive an invite.  Please do not contact reception until we make contact with you.

In the meantime, please ensure that your up to date contact details are registered with your GP Surgery so that they may reach you. 

For more information on what you can do to help yourself stay well in winter and vaccine eligibility, please follow this link to the NHS Winter vaccinations and winter health web page>>

About the Coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine

The coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccines are safe and effective. They give you the best protection against COVID-19.

The NHS England website is regularly updated and maintains the latest information about who can get a COVID-19 vaccine, the types of COVID-19 vaccines available and information on standards of safety quality and effectiveness.  Visit the NHS England Coronavirus vaccines web page for more information by following this link:>>

Why Get a seasonal COVID vaccination? 

Viruses change, and protection fades over time.  The COVID-19 vaccine helps protect against COVID-19 virus, which can be a serious or life-threatening illness.  People at increased risk of getting seriously ill from COVID-19 are invited to receive the vaccine, which the NHS usually offers in spring and early winter.

  • Enhanced protection: The vaccine targets the latest variants, offering stronger immunity. 
  • Reduced risk of severe illness: Especially important for those with underlying health conditions. 
  • Protect those around you: Vaccination helps prevent transmission to vulnerable individuals. 
  • Support the NHS: Reducing the spread of the virus eases pressure on healthcare services. 

Why is my recent COVID vaccination not showing on my NHS COVID pass?

The NHS COVID pass closed on 4 December 2023, as vaccination status no longer needs to be demonstrated domestically or for international travel and the pass is no longer needed.

Most patients can see this information in their GP health record on the NHS App within the 'Check Your Covid-19 Vaccine Record' section within the 'Your Health' icon. 

The NHS App continues to provide a simple and secure way for people to access a range of NHS services. Please be aware that travel restrictions and requirements can change, you should stay up to date with the latest information from the relevant authorities when planning your international travel.

More information relating to entry requirements can be obtained from the Foreign Office Travel Advice website - Foreign travel advice - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk).

A hand holding a smartphone with the NHS App
the Crane Valley PCN logo, the words Community Vaccination Centre is located at 131 Newtown Road Verwood BH31 6EH (Next to the Lake Road Surgery)

Crane Valley PCN Community Vaccination Centre

December 2021 saw the launch of a new vaccination centre led by GP Practices within the Crane Valley Primary Care Network (PCN). The Crane Valley PCN vaccination site enabled GP practices in the area to accelerate the delivery of booster vaccines to local patients.

Since then, site staff have delivered thousands of doses to the local community. 

The Community Vaccination centre is located at 131 Newtown Road, Verwood  BH31 6EH, and is based in the bungalow nextdoor to Lake Road surgery. 

Follow this link for more information for patients attending the Crane Valley PCN Community Vaccination Centre>>

Surgeries in the Network offer a range of Vaccinations, including seasonal flu, routinely provided to adults, young people and children.  Contact your GP surgery directly about vaccines other than for COVID.  Please visit individual surgery websites for more information on vaccinations offered.

Page last reviewed: 04 August 2025
Page created: 13 July 2022