The friendly vaccination in pregnancy (VIP) midwives at Torbay Women’s health unit
Introduction of the service
Torbay Hospital perinatal vaccine service commenced on 2 September 2024, initially delivered by Bank Midwives. It is now delivered by a skilled team of 1.4 wte Vaccination in Pregnancy Nurses (VIPs). This service represents a significant enhancement in the provision of immunisation support for pregnant women and babies.
The service offers a comprehensive range of vaccinations, including Pertussis (whooping cough) and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) vaccines, as well as seasonal flu immunisations for pregnant women. Vaccination against these viruses is important as they can sometimes be serious for babies and pregnant women. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) – NHS Whooping cough – NHS The flu jab in pregnancy – NHS
The team also provides neonatal BCG vaccination for eligible babies up to 1 year of age, ensuring timely protection against tuberculosis. BCG vaccine for tuberculosis (TB) – NHS
Since implementation, the service has made a huge difference to the vaccination rates.
Celebrating success
Since the introduction of the RSV vaccine nationally there has been a 30% reduction in the number of admissions to hospital for under 1 years with RSV.
Torbay has seen an increase in the rates of vaccination in pregnancy since the dedicated service was introduced.
The tables below show the number and type of Pertussis and RSV vaccines given monthly. The eligible population obviously varies through the year depending on how many women are pregnant at any one time. 85% of eligible women received a pertussis vaccine in 2024/25 and 90% an RSV vaccine.
RSV vaccines were introduced routinely in pregnancy from September 2024
Total vaccines given in pregnancy rose from 1452 in 2023-24 to 3294 in 2024-25. Up to January 2026, the figure for 2025-26 was 3153. This is despite a recorded reduction in the overall birth rate.
Where the service operates
The Perinatal Vaccine Service is delivered through a network of accessible clinics designed to meet the needs of families across Torbay and South Devon including Ashburton, Brixham, Dartmouth, Dawlish, Newton Abbot, and Totnes. These clinics offer the full range of perinatal vaccinations, including seasonal flu, ensuring equitable access for pregnant women across the region. Saturday morning appointments are also available.
Vaccination appointments are integrated into existing maternity pathways, running alongside routine midwifery appointments at all community outreach hubs as well as within the main Antenatal Clinic, to enable appointments post scan. The team also supports the delivery of seasonal staff vaccinations, although these figures are reported separately.
The BCG clinics are all run in the clinically safest location in paediatric outpatients. The consultant paediatrician oversees the service and is available if there are queries.
The best time to have vaccines in pregnancy
Optimal protection relies on timely vaccination. The pertussis vaccine is available to all pregnant women from 16 weeks gestation, while RSV vaccination becomes available from 28 weeks. The service aims to complete the vaccination course by 36 weeks to allow time for the antibodies to develop and cross the placenta.
BCG is only offered to the at-risk cohort of neonates, in line with national guidance.
To support best outcomes, the service encourages all maternity and primary care professionals to proactively discus vaccine timing at every antenatal contact and signpost woman to their nearest clinic. Early conversations lead to higher uptake and stronger protection for both mother and baby.
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To book an appointment or to talk through vaccine options, please contact your midwife to arrange
