Children’s vaccinations are one of the most effective ways to protect children from serious illnesses.
Child vaccination rates in Liverpool remain lower than they should be, and this puts many children at risk of illnesses that can be prevented.
Diseases that were once rare can spread more easily, especially in busy communities, schools and early years settings like ours at Centre 56.
Why children’s vaccinations are so important
Vaccines help children build strong immunity and reduce the spread of infections across families, neighbourhoods and the wider city. Vaccinations help prevent millions of diseases worldwide every year and were responsible for preventing the deaths of an estimated 36 million children under the age of five between 2000 and 2019.
By staying up to date with routine vaccinations, families help protect not only their own children but the wider Liverpool community too.
They protect against serious illnesses such as:
- Measles
- Polio
- Whooping cough
- Mumps
- Rubella
- Meningitis
Some of these conditions can be particularly dangerous for babies and young children. Measles and whooping cough, for example, can lead to complications that may require hospital care.
Vaccination dramatically reduces these risks.
Vaccinating your child doesn’t just protect them, it protects other families too, and helps protect children who cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons.
When more children are vaccinated, it becomes harder for illnesses to spread, creating a safer community for everyone.
How to check if your child is up to date
It’s simple to find out whether your child has had all the vaccines recommended for their age:
Following the NHS-recommended vaccine timeline ensures your child is protected at every stage of early life.
- Check their Red Book – Vaccination dates are usually recorded here.
- Contact your GP practice – They can confirm what your child has received and arrange any catch‑up appointments if needed. If you’re unsure, worried, or have questions, your GP practice can offer support and guidance.
If your child has missed any of their routine vaccinations
Don’t worry, it’s never too late to get back on track! Vaccines can be safely given at any time, and your child doesn’t need to start the schedule over. They can simply pick up from where they left off.
It’s important that vaccines are given on time for the best protection. Staying up to date with vaccinations helps protect your child and those around them from serious illnesses. Please contact your GP practice to arrange a catch-up appointment.
If you’re unsure, worried, or have questions, your GP practice can offer support and guidance.
Where to find reliable information
There is a lot of misinformation about vaccines spread online. Getting your information from medical professionals and trusted organisations such as the NHS and the World Health Organisation (WHO) is essential.
Learn more about the full childhood vaccination schedule on the NHS website. This includes information about each vaccine, when it’s offered, and how it helps protect children.
Staying safe together
At Centre 56, we’re committed to supporting families and helping children stay safe, healthy and protected. Vaccinations play an important role in that. By staying informed and checking your child’s records, you’re helping build a safer Liverpool for every child.
If your child has missed a vaccine or you’re unsure what they’ve had, please contact your GP practice to arrange a catch‑up appointment. Every step you take helps protect your child, and strengthens our whole community.
