COVID-19 Vaccine Survey Pinpoints Community Concerns
Cathy Turland, Chief Executive at Healthwatch Redbridge said:
“We really wanted to understand why there were concerns within some communities, and whether further support and information might enable people to make an informed decision on immunisation. Having the right information from a trusted source is crucial in allowing people to make their own minds up.”
The survey which was completed by 409 respondents found that:
- 76% felt they were able to make an informed decision on whether or not to get the vaccine.
- Around a fifth (18%) felt that the information wasn’t sufficient.
- Those most likely to take the vaccine immediately or within 3 months generally came from white backgrounds, plus the Indian community, and were mostly aged 65+.
- Some reasons given by the 91% of respondents who said they would take the vaccine were: “Less likely to go to hospital or suffer severe effects.”
“We all need to get on with our lives safely... I need to have it to minimise risk not only to me but for the greater community.”
Amongst the 9% who said they would never take the vaccine, fears around efficacy, side effects and a lack of longer-term data were prominent: “I feel that I need more information about it before making a decision.”
“Not enough research is carried out. Impossible to come up with a vaccine in just four to five months.”
The survey was shared through local hospital trusts, Councilors, community groups and social media. It was completed by 409 people between December 2020 – February 2021.
ENDS
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NOTES TO EDITORS:
Contact details: Healthwatch Redbridge - Cathy Turland - Chief Executive Officer
07734 140 657 cathy@healthwatchredbridge.co.uk
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