The influence of HARP (the Health Access for Refugees’ Project) on vaccine hesitancy in people seeking asylum and refugees in Northern England

Abstract

Background
Evidence suggests that people who are asylum seekers and refugees experience poorer physical and mental health compared to the general UK population and poor outcomes from COVID-19 if unvaccinated. However, this population can experience vaccine hesitancy and other barriers inhibiting their up-take of the COVID-19 vaccine.

Objectives
This study explored the influence of HARP (Health Access for Refugees’ Project) workshops on the intention to have the vaccine in people who are asylum-seekers and refugees.

Methods
A qualitative study including clients (asylum-seekers and refugees), volunteers and HARP staff was undertaken to explore perceptions of HARP workshops and their influence on the barriers to the uptake of the COVID-19 vaccine including vaccine hesitancy. Semi-structured telephone interviews were undertaken with 10 participants, HARP clients (n = 1), HARP volunteers (n = 6, of whom 4 had been clients) and staff (n = 3). Data were thematically analysed.

Results
Intention to have the vaccine was influenced by trusted sources including peers and health professionals. Tailoring evidence-based information to individuals and challenging misinformation were important influencers on vaccine uptake. HARP activity increased the uptake of vaccines in large accommodation centres and hotels. Grassroots-level interventions such as HARP workshops appear to increase intention to take up the COVID-19 vaccine in asylum seeking and refugee communities.

Conclusion
This model could be adopted for health screening such as breast cancer and other vaccinations within asylum seeking and refugee communities.

Paper Context

Main findings: Intention to have the vaccine and vaccine uptake was influenced by trusted sources, such as peers and health professionals, providing tailored and evidence-based information which challenged misinformation and gave individuals increased confidence in vaccination.

Added knowledge: Grassroots-level interventions which work within the community appear to increase intention to take up the COVID-19 vaccine in asylum seeking and refugee communities.

Global health impact for policy and action: This model has implications for the promotion and uptake for various public health initiatives including health screening and other vaccinations within asylum seeking and refugee communities.