Childhood immunisation rates in Islington are a growing concern for health officials, with a recent scrutiny committee meeting highlighting the need for improved uptake of vital vaccines.
The Health, Wellbeing and Adult Social Care Scrutiny Committee heard that while many public health indicators are positive, childhood immunisation rates remain a challenge. Councillor Shreya Nanda specifically raised concerns about improving vaccination rates, particularly for the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine, and questioned the role of partnerships with schools and community groups in addressing this issue.
During the discussion on the Public Health Quarter 4 Performance Report, it was noted that childhood immunisation rates remain a challenge. The committee also discussed vaccine hesitancy and misinformation as significant barriers to improving immunisation rates. Councillor Nanda stated, I think one of the greatest barriers that we have around vaccine is around vaccine hesitancy and link to that misinformation which is a real challenge to get on top of
.
To counter these challenges, a shift in approach is being implemented, moving away from simply stating vaccination is mandatory towards more supportive conversations. Health visitors are receiving additional training focused on having these sensitive discussions in a more positive way, rather than simply stating vaccination is safe. They are also being encouraged to link in with general practices to ensure collaborative call and recall processes.
In terms of partnership working, the committee heard that there is a real positive story
of collaboration. Work is being done with schools to explore ways to improve vaccination uptake. While initial results of these partnerships are not yet detailed, the approach is described as supportive and is not just a tick box approach.
Councillor Prasad also raised concerns about differing barriers within different cultures and inquired about exploring champions and advocates within those communities. In response, work with the British Islamic Medical Association was mentioned, and plans for a deep dive needs assessment
are underway to better understand barriers in various groups.
The meeting information can be found in the Public reports pack for the Health Wellbeing and Adult Social Care Scrutiny Committee meeting on 15th October 2026. Further details are available in the Minutes.