Liberty responds to mandatory vaccines for NHS staff

Liberty has responded to news that COVID-19 vaccines will be mandatory for NHS staff in England.

Gracie Bradley, Liberty Director, said: “We all want to know that our loved ones are safe – and it is vital that Government safeguards public health and protects people from COVID. However, a coercive approach to vaccination will be felt most keenly by some of the very communities who have borne the brunt of the pandemic – and those healthcare workers who have been on the frontline throughout.

“Research suggests these proposals could also be counterproductive from a public health perspective, and will damage trust between employers, patients and key workers.

“The Government must continue to ensure wide access to vaccinations and education to support informed consent, rather than pressure and punishment.”