Speech Therapists produce video to encourage people with learning disabilities to get their flu vaccine
People with learning disabilities and their carers are being targeted with a new video to encourage them to get their free flu vaccine this winter.
Flu kills up to 11,000 people a year and those with learning disabilities are more vulnerable to the virus because of other health conditions.
Local people with learning disabilities told health care staff that one of the main reasons they don’t get a vaccine is because of a fear of needles.
The video uses explains why it is important for them to get one and lets them know that they can ask to have the vaccine as a spray instead. It also explains that members of their family and support workers can have the free vaccine too.
Filmed and signed by Speech and Language Therapists Sam and Louise from Coventry and Warwickshire Partnership Trust, the video uses Makaton - a unique language programme that uses symbols, signs and speech to help people who have learning disabilities to understand information and communicate.
Sam said: “We are thrilled to be able to produce this video, we hope it helps to get an important message across to people with learning disabilities and that more people come forward as a result of it.”
Sarah Raistrick, Chair of Coventry and Rugby CCG and a Coventry GP said: ““The flu vaccine is the best protection against flu and anything we can do to increase the take up of the vaccine, particularly amongst those who are most vulnerable to it, is a really good thing. If you, or someone you care for has a learning disability please come forward to have the vaccine and tell staff if you are worried, they will be able to help you.”
You can have the flu vaccination at your GP surgery or at a pharmacy. Please get in touch with them to book an appointment.
To view the video click here