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

Year: 2025
Type: article
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.
DOI: 10.1080/16549716.2025.2457808
Language: English
Subfield: Health
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,509
OpenAlex ID: W4407085386
FWCI:
Cites: 25
Cited by:
Related to: 10