01
Check the campaign window
NHS COVID boosters run in active windows (autumn / spring). Outside those windows, supply pauses. We'll let you know what's open when you ring or walk in.
NHS COVID-19 Programme
COVID boosters when you need them.
NHS-funded COVID-19 vaccinations and seasonal boosters at Qrystal Pharmacy. Walk-in clinics for eligible at-risk patients during the autumn and spring booster windows.
- Free if eligibleCost (NHS)
- About 10 minutesVisit time
- Autumn & springProgramme
Why get a COVID booster?
COVID-19 is now an endemic respiratory virus — most adults have prior immunity from infection, vaccination, or both. But for older adults, immunocompromised patients, and people with chronic conditions, that immunity wanes over time. Seasonal boosters top it back up before each winter and spring wave.
The current NHS programme is JCVI-led: eligibility, vaccine type, and timing are reviewed twice a year. Qrystal Pharmacy is a participating provider, so eligible patients can walk in or pre-book during the active campaign windows (typically autumn and spring).
If you're not currently eligible for an NHS booster, our pharmacist can talk you through current guidance, signpost you to private options where available, and answer any concerns about long-term safety.
Who is eligible for a free NHS COVID booster?
Eligibility is reviewed each season by the JCVI. Recent campaigns have typically included:
- Adults aged 65 and over (autumn) and aged 75+ (spring)
- Care home residents
- Patients aged 6 months and over with eligible weakened immune systems
- Pregnant patients (where indicated by JCVI)
- Frontline health and social-care workers (autumn campaigns)
You're not eligible if:
- Patients outside the current JCVI eligibility groups — your immunity from prior doses and infection is generally considered sufficient. Private vaccination is available in the UK; we can signpost you.
How your booster visit works
02
Confirm eligibility
Our pharmacist verifies eligibility against the current JCVI list — usually via your NHS record. Bring proof if you have a recent NHS letter or text inviting you.
03
Pre-jab consultation
We review prior doses, current medicines, and any allergies in a private consultation room. The pharmacist will explain the specific vaccine being used in this campaign.
04
Vaccine + observation
A quick upper-arm injection followed by 5 minutes of observation. Co-administration with the flu jab is fine — usually one in each arm. Your record updates electronically.
What's included
- JCVI eligibility check and consent
- Pre-jab consultation in a private room
- Current-campaign NHS COVID-19 vaccine
- Optional co-administration with NHS flu jab
- Post-jab observation and aftercare advice
- Electronic update to your GP and NHS record
COVID vaccination — frequently asked questions
Which vaccine will I get?
The vaccine used depends on the current NHS campaign — Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna mRNA vaccines have been the main options in recent UK seasons. Our pharmacist will confirm the exact product on the day.
I had a recent COVID infection — should I still get a booster?
Generally yes, if you're in an eligible group. NHS guidance usually advises waiting at least 4 weeks after a confirmed infection before boosting, so prior immunity has settled. The pharmacist will confirm timing on the day.
What side effects are common?
A sore arm, mild tiredness, headache, and low-grade fever for 24–48 hours are most common. Severe reactions are very rare. We provide written aftercare advice and a number to call if you're concerned.
Can I get a COVID booster outside the active campaign?
NHS supply pauses outside JCVI windows. Private COVID vaccination is available in some UK clinics; we can signpost you if needed.
Can I have it at the same time as my flu jab?
Yes — co-administration is standard NHS practice. One jab in each arm; you save a trip and post-jab observation is shared.
Will it appear on my NHS record?
Yes, with your consent. The record updates within 24–48 hours and is visible to your GP and on your NHS app.
Related Services
Flu Vaccination
Free annual flu jab — can be given at the same visit as your COVID booster.
Learn moreSeasonal Vaccinations
Programme overview covering flu, COVID, and other seasonal jabs.
Learn moreNew Medicine Service
Free NHS pharmacist consultations for patients newly prescribed long-term medicines.
Learn moreGet your COVID booster
Walk in or pre-book a 10-minute slot during the active NHS campaign window. Eligible patients pay nothing — co-administration with flu is fine.