What are people's views about childhood vaccinations and the vaccination service in Wiltshire?

Report - 25 February 2025

Wiltshire generally has high childhood vaccination coverage, exceeding the national average. However, some vaccinations fall short of World Health Organisation targets, including MMR, pre-school boosters, and vaccines given to children in secondary school.

Key findings

Almost 500 people shared their thoughts with us.

  • Nearly 90% of respondents think that childhood vaccinations are very important.
  • 75% of respondents consider childhood vaccinations to be safe. They are most concerned about the Covid and MMR vaccinations.
  • 76% of respondents think that childhood vaccinations are very effective. The flu and Covid vaccines are seen as least effective.
  • 56% of respondents think that it’s very convenient to get their child vaccinated. Respondents would find it more convenient if appointments are available outside of working hours.

Although in the minority, respondents with significant concerns about childhood vaccinations often express their views very strongly.

Underserved groups, such as resettled families, face barriers to accessing vaccinations. 

Download our full report below.

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Report: What are people's views about childhood vaccinations and the vaccination service in Wiltshire?
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There is so, so much different information [...] and because we don’t trust the medical authorities, it is hard to work out what’s true. 

Project participant from Traveller community

This work has been commissioned by the Public Health team at Wiltshire
Council.

Recommendations

How can professionals provide parents with the information they need to make an informed decision around childhood vaccinations?

Invest in trust

  • Strengthening the ability of professionals to build trust between the vaccination service and underserved groups.

Transform communications approach

  • Develop a communications approach that is fit for a world where anti-vaccine sentiment is mainstream and driven by social media.

Improve patient journeys

  • Implement recommendations to make the vaccine services easier to use.

Understanding emerging technologies

  • Understand how emerging technologies could make the vaccine service easier to use.

Set up Translation Taskforce

Resolve the systemic problems that prevent the vaccination service from providing effective translations of its communications.

If you would like to share your thoughts and feelings about childhood vaccinations, or any other health or social care service, please complete our online feedback form.

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