The new pilot targets families who've fallen through the cracks - including those not signed up with a GP, struggling with travel costs, childcare juggling, language barriers or other circumstances that stop them getting to the doctor.

The 12 pilot schemes will roll out from mid-January across five regions of England - London, the Midlands, North East & Yorkshire, North West, and South West - designed to boost uptake and protect children from preventable diseases.

Health visitors on the pilot will get extra training to tackle tricky conversations with worried parents - including those who have doubts about vaccination - and to give vaccinations safely.

Struggling families will be identified by the NHS using GP records, health visitor notes and local databases.

Health and social care secretary, Wes Streeting, said: ‘Every parent deserves the chance to protect their child from preventable diseases, but some families have a lot going on and that can mean they miss out.

‘Health visitors are already trusted faces in communities across the country. By allowing them to offer vaccinations, we're using the relationships and expertise that already exist to reach families who need support most.

‘Fixing the NHS means tackling health inequalities head-on. By meeting families where they are, we're not just boosting vaccination rates - we're building a health service that works for everyone.'

The year-long trial will be evaluated before rolling it out across the country from 2027.