Immunisation

The Framework responds to the growing need for a structured approach to capability building, recruitment, retention, and career progression within the vaccination workforce.

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the vital role of a skilled, adaptable vaccination workforce, while exposing gaps in education and career pathways. As immunisation services become more complex, a confident, agile, and values-driven workforce is essential for delivering safe, person-centred, and equitable care.

This draft Framework was co-designed collaboratively with a national stakeholder group of vaccination specialists, educators, and workforce planners to ensure it reflects real-world needs and achieves wide consensus.

The Framework integrates the NMAHP Development Framework with specialist vaccinator content, bringing everything together in one place for easier navigation and practical use.

It offers a progressive structure to support:

• Individuals pursuing or developing a career in vaccination
• Managers and organisations with workforce planning
• Educators in creating consistent learning pathways
• Improved quality and safety of vaccination services across Scotland

This Framework is designed for those delivering vaccination services as a primary role:

• Vaccinators includes Healthcare Support Workers and registered healthcare professionals whose main role involves vaccination
• Those in dedicated Immunisation Teams or roles focused on vaccine administration, coordination, and related care

The Framework may also be of interest to other professionals who provide vaccinations as part of a wider role, including midwives, school nurses, health visitors, community nurses and pharmacists.

We are now at the consultation stage and invite input from vaccinators, line managers, educators, senior leaders, and organisations to ensure the Framework is clear, practical, and meets workforce needs.

There are two key actions:

1. Take part in the consultation and help shape the final Framework.
   We welcome feedback on vaccination specific content. Consider:
   • Clarity and usability
   • Structure and level descriptions
   • Relevance to your role or setting
   • Areas for improvement
2. Share this consultation widely with colleagues and networks.
   We are particularly keen to hear from frontline vaccinators, programme leads, educators, and workforce planners.

Access the draft Development Framework for Vaccinators

Please provide your feedback using the MS Forms questionnaire

Please note:

The draft document will undergo final changes and formatting before publication and should not be used in practice in its current form.

Deadline for responses: Monday 9 February 2026.

•  All feedback will be analysed and used to inform the final Framework.
• The completed Framework will be published on the NMAHP Development Framework website.
• If you have any questions or need further information, please contact us at:
  immunisation-resource@nes.scot.nhs.uk

Thank you for your support in shaping the future of vaccination careers in Scotland.