FCS statement on NHS vaccination as a condition of employment for healthcare workers

The Secretary of State for Health and Social Care has announced that the Government intends to revoke vaccination as a condition of deployment (VCOD) for healthcare workers in England from 1 April 2022. 

We are aware that, based on the guidance already issued to the service, you will have begun to prepare for formal meetings with staff on their deployment if they remain unvaccinated. This change in Government policy means that employers are requested not to serve notice of termination to employees affected by the VCOD regulations.

This is still subject to Parliamentary process and will require further consultation and a vote to be passed into legislation, and we therefore encourage all healthcare workers to continue checking for updates on this process and its outcomes through NHS England’s website which can be found here. The HCPC has also made a statement about the VCOD regulations which can be found here.

Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself, your family, your colleagues and, of course, your patients from the virus. If you have any concerns or need advice, please contact your local FCS representative.