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NHS vaccinations for children (and catching up)
The NHS offers free vaccines to babies, children and teenagers on a set schedule, and some to adults. If your child missed a vaccine, for example because you have just moved to the UK, your GP can help them catch up.
Official links
Show links for:
| Official source | Applies to |
|---|---|
| NHS: vaccinations and when to have them www.nhs.uk/vaccinations/nhs-vaccinations-and-when-to-have-them/ | England |
| NHS inform: immunisations (Scotland) www.nhsinform.scot/healthy-living/immunisation/ | Scotland |
| nidirect: childhood immunisation programme www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/childhood-immunisation-programme | Northern Ireland |
Step by step
- Register your child with a GP surgery.
- Check the NHS vaccination schedule for your child's age.
- Book the appointments when you are invited. Some vaccines are given at school, which will contact you first.
- If you think your child has missed any vaccines, ask your GP surgery: they will advise what is needed and when.
What you need
- Your child's red book (personal child health record), if you have one.
- Details of any vaccines your child has already had, including outside the UK, so the GP can work out what is missing.
Common mistakes
- Assuming it is too late: you can still catch up on most vaccines.
- Missing an appointment without rearranging it with the GP surgery.
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