vaccination priority groups and prioritisation for those with a learning disability

Thank you very much for contacting me about vaccination priority groups and prioritisation for those with a learning disability.

I know this has been an incredibly difficult and worrying time for people with learning disabilities, as well as their family, friends and carers. My colleagues and I in the Welsh Conservatives are absolutely committed to supporting people with learning disabilities and autism through every stage of the pandemic.

I understand that the four-nation Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) has been carefully considering the prioritisation of those with learning disabilities and autism. At present, their decisions are based on current evidence which strongly shows that the single greatest risk of mortality from COVID-19 is increasing age, and that the risk increases exponentially with age.  When they compared this evidence to people without underlying health conditions, the absolute risk is considered to be lower than in those aged over the age of 65.

However, the exception to this evidence is the clinically extremely vulnerable and I understand that the JCVI’s advice is to offer vaccination to those aged 65 years and over, followed by those who are in clinical risk groups aged 16 and over, including those with severe and profound learning disabilities.  I understand that this advice is reflected in Wales.

It is important to note also that while the JCVI has given its recommendations on the first phase of prioritisation (groups 1-9), it is still due to come forward with further recommendations of further prioritisation.  I have previously raised the priority groups for people with a learning disability with the Health Minister, therefore please find attached copies of my responses for your information.  Rest assured, Welsh Conservatives will continue to challenge the Minister on the priority groups.

As the JCVI is in the process of considering the next phase of the vaccination programme, they have said that the points raised with them regarding the wider numbers of persons with mild and moderate learning disabilities and autism will be taken into account in the relevant discussions and considerations ahead. I will be following developments closely.

Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.

Yours sincerely