Well Pharmacy has started providing free flu vaccines to people over the age of 18 having decided to scrap the £15 fee.

The pharmacy chain, which began rolling out the jabs yesterday after expressing its concern about the impact of the cost-of-living crisis on patients, claimed it is the only pharmacy offering vaccines to those who are not eligible for the free NHS vaccination scheme.

Children aged 2 to 11, adults aged 50 and over, people who have certain health conditions, pregnant women, people in long-stay residential care, individuals who receive a carer's allowance or are the main carer for an older or disabled person and those who live with someone who is more likely to get a severe infection due to a weakened immune system are entitled to a free jab.

Well said it was aware “that money is a real concern, with people making choices between eating and heating” and added: “With Christmas just behind us, many are feeling the pinch, and may not be able to afford to pay for their jab.”

Well’s superintendent pharmacist Ifti Khan said: “We have taken the decision to offer the flu vaccination for free, whilst stocks last. We know the cost-of-living crisis is impacting on people. If anyone doesn’t qualify for a free NHS vaccination, and they are struggling financially, finding the money to get the vaccine can feel impossible.

“We also know we are amid one of the worst flu seasons we have seen in recent times. We want people to know that if they haven’t already been vaccinated and need a jab, they can come and have one for free at a local Well Pharmacy. Getting a flu jab is one of the best things people can do to protect themselves and their family this winter.”