When Gabrielle Wearmouth, an Operating Department Practitioner (ODP) at HRI, heard about this year's Flu Peer Immuniser campaign, she decided to get involved for the first time.

Gabrielle has already signed up and is encouraging other eligible clinical colleagues to do the same, helping to make flu vaccinations as accessible as possible across our Trust.

She said:"I'd never heard of the Peer Immuniser programme before, but when I saw that ODPs could get involved, I thought, 'I'll do that.' We're quite specialised in theatres, so it's nice to have the opportunity to do something a bit different and broaden your skills. It's another string to your bow.

"As we go into winter, everyone starts to pick up bugs. If flu takes hold, people can be off for a week or more, which puts pressure on the rest of the team. Becoming a Peer Immuniser is a simple way to help protect colleagues and patients.

"I'd say to anyone who's thinking about it: go for it. It's a great opportunity to learn something new and make a difference."

Peer Immunisers play a vital role in our annual flu campaign, delivering vaccinations to colleagues within their own clinical areas. Being vaccinated by a familiar face can often encourage greater uptake and helps protect our workforce during the busy winter months.

The campaign begins on 1 October and most registered clinical practitioners can become Peer Immunisers, including Registered Nurses, Midwives, Physiotherapists, ODPs, Nursing Associates and Pharmacists. 

There is also an added incentive this year. Any Peer Immuniser who vaccinates more than 20 colleagues will be entered into a prize draw to win one of four £50 shopping vouchers. 

Don't miss the deadline

If you'd like to join Gabrielle and become a Peer Immuniser, email flu@cht.nhs.uk by Monday 28 September. Your Basic Life Support (BLS) training must be up to date. Colleagues who have previously taken part are also encouraged to sign up for refresher training.

Every vaccination helps protect colleagues, patients, families and communities.

Interested? Email flu@cht.nhs.uk before 28 September and play your part in this year's flu campaign.