Protect yourself before university with the free NHS MenB vaccine
If you’re an eligible Year 13 leaver or under 25 and starting university, higher education, or residential further education for the first time in autumn 2026, you may be eligible for a free NHS MenB vaccine at Pierremont Pharmacy in Broadstairs.
Our experienced pharmacy team is helping eligible students across Broadstairs and Thanet access this important NHS vaccination before they leave home and begin university life.
- Free NHS MenB vaccination for eligible patients
- Helps protect against meningitis and septicaemia
- Convenient appointments with our experienced pharmacy team
- Get vaccinated before starting university
- Eligible international students under 25 entering their first year of university.
- Year 13 student leaving school in 2026
- Under 25, starting university or higher education for the first time in autumn 2026
- Under 25, moving into residential further education accommodation for the first time
What is the MenB vaccine?
Protection against meningococcal group B bacteria
The MenB vaccine helps protect against meningococcal group B bacteria, which can cause serious illnesses including meningitis (infection of the lining of the brain and spinal cord) and septicaemia (blood poisoning).
Although these infections are uncommon, they can develop rapidly and become life-threatening. Getting vaccinated before starting university or moving into shared accommodation is one of the most effective ways to reduce your risk.
Who can get the free vaccine
Four ways to qualify
If you’re unsure whether you’re eligible, our pharmacy team will be happy to help.
Why vaccination matters
MenB is uncommon—but it can become serious very quickly
Students starting university often experience a significant increase in close social contact. Living in halls of residence or shared accommodation increases exposure to new groups of people, making the spread of infections more likely.
Getting vaccinated before term starts helps protect this important transition.
!MenB disease can cause
- Meningitis
- Septicaemia
- Hearing loss
- Brain injury
- Limb amputations
- Permanent disability
- In rare cases, death
✓Why vaccination helps
- Reduces your risk before university
- Particularly important for shared accommodation
- Two doses provide the best protection
- Free for eligible patients through the NHS programme
Your Vaccination Appointment
What to expect
Appointments usually take around 10–15 minutes.
During your appointment, our trained pharmacy team will:
- Confirm your eligibility
- Answer any questions
- Administer the vaccine safely into your upper arm
- Explain possible side effects
- Advise when your second dose should be given
Possible Side Effects
Are there any side effects?
Like all vaccines, the MenB vaccine can cause side effects, although most are mild and short-lived.
Serious reactions are extremely rare
Serious reactions are extremely rare, and our trained pharmacy team is fully prepared to respond if required.
If you have any concerns after your vaccination, please contact the pharmacy or seek medical advice.
Two Doses for the Best Protection
The MenB vaccination course requires two doses.
How to book
Booking your appointment is easy
NHS National Booking Service
Book through the NHS National Booking Service once appointments become available.
Contact the pharmacy
Get in touch with Letchworth Pharmacy directly for advice and appointment availability.
Walk in
Ask our pharmacy team about walk-in appointments, where available.
Why choose Letchworth Pharmacy
Making healthcare accessible,
convenient and reassuring
Experienced, fully trained team
Our pharmacy professionals deliver friendly, professional care throughout.
Convenient local appointments
Get vaccinated close to home before you head off to university.
Trusted NHS vaccination services
A growing range of NHS vaccination services, free for eligible patients.
Expert advice & ongoing support
Guidance on vaccines and general health, before and after your appointment.
Serving Broadstairs and Thanet
Pierremont Pharmacy welcomes eligible patients from across:
Letchworth Pharmacy welcomes eligible patients from across the local area.
FAQs
Eligible Year 13 students and under-25s starting university or moving into residential further education accommodation for the first time may qualify for the free NHS MenB vaccine.
Yes. Eligible patients can receive the vaccine free of charge through this NHS service.
Yes. The service is specifically designed to help protect eligible students before they begin university or move into shared accommodation.
The vaccination course consists of two doses for the recommended level of protection.
Your pharmacist will advise you when your second dose should be given according to current NHS guidance.
Walk-in appointments may be available, depending on availability. We recommend contacting the pharmacy or booking in advance.
Not necessarily. If you don’t know your NHS number, our pharmacy team can usually help locate your NHS record.
No. MenB and MenACWY protect against different strains of meningococcal bacteria. Depending on your circumstances, you may be eligible for both vaccines.
Yes. Parents or guardians can contact the pharmacy to arrange an appointment for an eligible young person.
Symptoms may include:
- High temperature
- Severe headache
- Neck stiffness
- Sensitivity to light
- Vomiting
- Drowsiness or confusion
- A rash that does not fade when pressed
Meningitis can become serious very quickly. If meningitis is suspected, seek urgent medical attention immediately.
Ready to book your free NHS MenB vaccine?
If you’re eligible, don’t leave it until the last minute.
Book your NHS MenB vaccination early to allow enough time for both doses before university.
Walk-in availability may vary, so please check before attending. To avoid disappointment, we recommend booking through the NHS where available. Please bring proof of your eligibility.
Questions? Contact Pierremont Pharmacy.