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Can employers force staff to have the Covid vaccine? – People Management

Making the jab mandatory or pressurising employees to have it could lead to criminal implications, says David Sheppard

The Law
There are no statutory provisions that could force individuals to become vaccinated. The Public Health (Control of Disease) Act 1984 specifically states that members of the public should not be compelled to undergo any mandatory medical treatment, including vaccinations. 

If any government of the UK were to insist on compulsory vaccination, it could feasibly give rise to objections on the grounds of individual liberty and human rights. This is owing to article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights, which protects people from being interfered with physically or psychologically and includes mandatory vaccinations.

Can businesses force employees to vaccinate?
In short, no. In theory, if there is a thorough medical examinations clause in a contract of employment, it could be relied upon. However, this would still be fraught with risk, and freely given consent is required for any medical intervention. 

https://www.peoplemanagement.co.uk/experts/legal/can-employers-force-staff-to-have-the-covid-vaccine