Getting vaccinated against flu is a simple step that can make a big difference to your health and wellbeing over the winter months. Flu is much more than a heavy cold and can lead to serious illness, particularly for older people, young children, pregnant women and those with underlying health conditions. The flu vaccine not only helps protect you and your family, but also helps reduce pressure on health services during the busy winter period. I would encourage everyone who is eligible to take up the offer of a free NHS vaccination and for parents and carers to make sure their children receive their flu vaccine if they have not already done so. Our Thurrock Cares Warm Up for Winter roadshows are another great way for residents to get vaccinated, while also being able to access support and advice on staying warm, managing household costs and accessing local services.
Thurrock Residents Urged to Get Free Winter Flu Vaccinations
NHS offering free flu jabs to eligible adults and children across Thurrock to combat serious winter illness.
By Rebecca Flint
••3 min read
AI
Generic image of a community health event with people receiving vaccinations.
Residents in Thurrock are being urged to get their free NHS flu vaccinations this winter to protect themselves and their families from serious illness.
Free NHS flu vaccinations are available for eligible adults and children across Thurrock, with the programme aiming to reduce the risk of severe illness and complications during the colder months. Flu can be particularly serious for older people, pregnant women, young children, and those with long-term health conditions.
Eligibility for the free vaccine includes people aged 65 and over (including those turning 65 by 31 March 2027), pregnant women, individuals with certain long-term health conditions, eligible carers, and those living with immunocompromised individuals. Care home residents, eligible children (including two and three-year-olds and school-aged children), and people experiencing homelessness are also covered. Frontline health and social care workers can receive their vaccine through their employer.
Parents and carers are reminded that school-aged children, typically from Reception to Year 11, are eligible for the free flu vaccine, often administered as a nasal spray. An injectable alternative is available for those who cannot receive the nasal spray. Vaccination helps protect children, reduces spread to vulnerable individuals, and can lessen symptoms if a child does contract the virus.
Catch-up flu vaccination clinics for children will be held across Thurrock until Saturday 12 December at various locations, including The Springhouse in Corringham and Thurrock CVS The Beehive in Grays. To book a clinic appointment, residents can visit the provided NHS booking link.
Additionally, the 'Thurrock Cares Warm Up for Winter' roadshows are running until 20 November. These events, a collaboration between Thurrock Council, NHS partners, and voluntary organisations, offer support on financial matters, energy advice, health and wellbeing, and community involvement, alongside vaccination services.
Cllr Rob Willoughby, Portfolio Holder for Adult Health and Housing Services, highlighted the importance of the vaccine for individual health and reducing pressure on health services. He also promoted the 'Warm Up for Winter' roadshows as a valuable resource for residents.
For more information on flu vaccinations and eligibility, residents can visit the NHS website.
Based on information from the official source: Thurrock Council (30/10/2026)
