The NHS in London is bringing vital healthcare directly to the capital’s homeless population this week as part of the Big Week of Vaccinations (22–30 November 2025).  

 With around 1 in 47 people in London homeless and over 13,000 sleeping on the streets, NHS teams are working to ensure rough sleepers can access the protection they need during the harsh winter months. 

 For around 8,000 Londoners sleeping rough for the first time this year, this will be their first winter facing dark nights and freezing temperatures on the streets. The NHS is committed to breaking down barriers to healthcare and reaching those most vulnerable, responding to a 90% rise in homelessness across the capital since 2015. 

 During the Big Week of Vaccinations, the NHS is bringing free vaccinations directly to where people already are – from shopping centres to mobile vaccination vans, hostels to day centres. This makes it easier than ever for homeless Londoners to get protected against illness and strengthen their immune systems during winter. 

 Will Huxter, Director of Commissioning for the NHS in London, said: “People who are homeless are highly likely to experience health inequalities, and can find it hard to access care. This is particularly concerning over winter, the hardest time of the year for people sleeping on the streets, and when they are highly likely to need NHS services.  

 “The capital’s NHS system is acutely aware of this and is working tirelessly to ensure healthcare is available to everyone this winter, delivering high quality, personalised care for individuals, whatever their circumstances.” 

 Hot showers, meals and vaccinations in Barking this week 

Today in Barking , as part of the Big Week of Vaccinations, a free ‘shower box’ service will provide local homeless people with a hot shower, meal, and walk-in vaccinations to protect against illness over the winter months. 

 Supported by NHS North East London ICB, the team of GPs and other healthcare professionals will be on hand to deliver vaccinations and health check-ups on a drop-in basis for rough sleepers, refugees and asylum seekers at Barking Learning Centre between 11am to 3pm. 

 Jagan John, GP and Co-Health Inequalities Lead at North East London ICB, said: “Local people who are sleeping on the streets can access NHS support in an accessible community space. People can see a GP with no address needed, access immigration and employment support, and even have a free haircut. We’ll also be offering vaccinations to eligible patients, which will help to protect them from winter illnesses like flu.” 

 Peer advocates supporting 600 people across London 

Groundswell, charity in Brixton, works closely with London NHS services to offer practical and emotional support to local homeless people. Over the last year, Groundswell’s service has supported nearly 600 people across 11 boroughs to attend almost 4,300 healthcare appointments. 

 From supporting people to register with a GP, to accompanying them to healthcare appointments, this partnership is breaking down barriers to healthcare within the capital. 

 Run by Peer Advocates with lived experience of homelessness, Groundswell’s Homeless Health Peer Advocacy programme (HHPA) provides one-to-one support for people who might otherwise miss out on essential care because of barriers such as lack of ID, digital exclusion, stigma, or previous negative experiences in healthcare settings. The service has also provided nearly 2,500 people with health information at 300 health promotion sessions. 

 Kate Bowgett, Groundswell Services Director, said: “Winter can be an especially dangerous time for people who are homeless. Through our Peer Advocates and partnership with NHS services, we make sure no one is excluded from healthcare because of their housing situation. This winter, Peer Advocates are providing direct outreach in hostels, day centres, and on the streets, working alongside NHS teams and outreach clinics to connect people sleeping rough or in temporary accommodation with vital primary care services.” 

 Street-based care and walk-in clinics across Westminster and Hammersmith 

In Westminster, Hammersmith and Fulham, Central London Community Healthcare NHS Trust delivers care directly on the street, in day centres, hostels and specialist GP practices through their Homeless Healthcare Outreach Service (HHOS). 

 The team of nurses and counsellors makes the NHS available to people who otherwise have difficulty gaining access to care. People sleeping rough can access clinical support, dentistry and podiatry services via walk-in clinics. The team also offers screening services, as well as emotional support and rehousing advice. 

 This winter, as part of the Big Week of Vaccinations and beyond, the service will deliver vaccination clinics in day centres and hostels and expanded daytime outreach activity to engage with people who remain on the streets and are most exposed to cold weather health risks. 

Anne McBrearty, Service Lead for the Homeless Health service at CLCH said: “By working with multiple London partners, our team provides critical health support to individuals sleeping rough during cold weather. These efforts help prevent avoidable illness, reduce cold-related harm, and address the significant health inequalities faced by people experiencing homelessness.” 

 London NHS services are committed to breaking down barriers to healthcare, ensuring equitable access to an excellent patient experience and optimal outcomes for all. 

 For more information on accessible vaccines this Big Week of Vaccinations, visit: NHS England — London » Getting your winter vaccines in London. 

If you are rough sleeping, or are concerned for someone who is, please contact Streetlink and provide as much information as possible about the location where you/they are sleeping rough.