The NHS has confirmed that free flu jabs will be available from October 1 for people receiving certain Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) benefits, including Carer's Allowance. The announcement comes as the government maintains the existing eligibility criteria despite a change in leadership at the Department of Health and Social Care.
Eligibility and Start Date Confirmed
Carers in receipt of Carer's Allowance, or those who are the main carer of an elderly or disabled person, will be called forward from October 1. The NHS confirmed that there is no change to eligibility this year, meaning the DWP Carer's Allowance rule remains in place.
The start of the adult programme for 2026 to 2027 will continue to be October 1. The NHS stated: "This start date is based on evidence of the waning of flu vaccine's effectiveness in adults which means that it is preferable to vaccinate individuals closer to the time when the flu virus is likely to circulate."
New Health Secretary Appointed
The announcement follows the appointment of Yvette Cooper as Secretary of State for Health and Social Care by Prime Minister Andy Burnham. Cooper, the MP for Pontefract, Castleford and Knottingley, will lead Burnham's £18 billion plan for a national care service. She replaces James Murray, who served as health secretary for just over two months after being appointed on 14 May 2026 following the resignation of Wes Streeting.
Cooper previously served as foreign secretary from September 2025 to July 2026 and home secretary from July 2024 to September 2025 under Sir Keir Starmer's leadership.
Vaccine Timing and Guidance
The NHS explained that flu typically peaks in December or January, and vaccinating closer to this period provides optimal protection during the highest risk period, even in early seasons such as the 2025 to 2026 season. Guidance on the rollout has been issued to GP surgeries from Dr Thomas Waite, Deputy Chief Medical Officer for England, Dr Mary Ramsay, Director of Public Health Programmes at the UK Health Security Agency, and Caroline Temmink, Director of Vaccination at NHS England.
The free flu jab programme for eligible adults will begin on October 1, with the NHS urging those who qualify to come forward when contacted.
