Case study · Public health and social care
Understanding barriers to childhood immunisation in Barnet
Qualitative research with parents and carers explored awareness, concerns, fears, information sources, and practical barriers behind lower childhood vaccination uptake.
AudienceParents and carers in Barnet whose children were not fully immunised or who were reluctant about vaccination
ApproachFocus groups and depth interviews with 13 recruited parents and carers
Value to Barnet CouncilDetailed insight into barriers and support measures that could help increase childhood vaccination uptake
The brief
- Barnet Council had identified that childhood MMR vaccination uptake was below the WHO target of 95%
- The Council commissioned Enventure Research to understand parental attitudes, identify potential barriers to immunisation, and explore what might help increase uptake
The approach
- Local organisations including the Council, NHS, and other health partners promoted the opportunity to participate
- Recruitment focused on parents and carers whose children were not immunised or who were reluctant about vaccination
- Thirteen participants were successfully recruited to focus groups or depth interviews, with researchers using a tailored discussion guide and recordings for analysis
The outcome
- The research provided evidence on awareness and understanding of childhood immunisations, information sources, concerns, fears, and other barriers, alongside views on support that could encourage uptake
- The research also explored the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on vaccination schedules and attitudes
- Findings were presented in a comprehensive report for Barnet Council
- Targeted recruitment of parents most relevant to the uptake challenge