Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, pursuant to the Answer of 3 December 2021 to Question 80898 on Coronavirus: Vaccination, what steps he is taking to help ensure a higher uptake of vaccinations among the 12 to 15 age group.

As of 11 December, over 1,285,987 12 to 15 year olds in England have now received their first dose. Since the school-based vaccination offer commenced in the autumn, 95% of all schools have either been visited or have a visit planned. NHS England and NHS Improvement are also planning a programme to reach those who were absent on the day of the vaccination visit; those who tested positive for COVID-19 within a 28-day period; and those who now wish to receive the vaccine. This will be at the end of the substantive school offer period.

Parents are also able to book a appointment via the National Booking Service or 119 which offers flexibility and an increasing number of vaccinations sites for 12 to 15 year olds. Parents and guardians will be advised to book an appointment to attend vaccine sites with their children and consent will be sought during the appointment.