- The NHS partnered with Goldsmiths, University of London, and the University of Greenwich, to make it simple and convenient for their students to receive the HPV vaccine during Freshers’ Week.
- The NHS campaign - “Catch Feelings, Not HPV – Get Vaccinated” - also ran across social media during Freshers’ to spread awareness of the vaccine.
The NHS South East London Cancer Alliance (SELCA), in partnership with Goldsmiths, University of London, and the University of Greenwich, successfully concluded its “Catch Feelings, Not HPV – Get Vaccinated” Freshers’ Week campaign, bringing free HPV vaccinations directly to university campuses – making it easy and accessible for all students to get protected.
The vaccine protects against human papillomavirus (HPV), a common virus that can cause certain cancers including cervical and penile cancer.
The eye-catching vinyl-wrapped vaccination bus toured across south-east London in September, making stops at:
- University of Greenwich (Avery Hill Campus – 15 Sept; Greenwich Campus – 18 & 19 September)
- Goldsmiths, University of London (24 and 25 September)
Strong Student Engagement
The HPV vaccination team – made up of nurses from Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, local GPs and staff at SELCA – engaged with hundreds of students about the campaign, with many accessing the HPV vaccine and advice about cancer prevention.
The team was also joined by Drag Queen Sophia Stardust who helped spread awareness of the vaccine.
The vaccine was available to women aged 18 to 24 who missed the vaccination at school, men born on or after 1 September 2026 and also men who sleep with men up to the age of 45.
The vibrant “Catch Feelings, Not HPV” bus created a buzz on campus, with students sharing their experiences across social media using the hashtags #CatchFeelingsNotHPV and #GetVaccinated.
Why the HPV Vaccine Matters
The HPV vaccine reduces your chance of getting human papillomavirus (HPV) – a common virus that spreads through skin contact (usually when having sex.) Most types of HPV are harmless. However, high-risk types are linked to an increased risk of certain types of cancer, including cervical, mouth, anal, penile, vulval, and vaginal cancers, as well as genital warts.
With only one dose required for most school aged children and young adults, the vaccine offers quick and effective protection. Research by Cancer Research UK indicates that widespread vaccination could save thousands of lives in the UK over time and is already reducing cervical cancer rates by almost 90 per cent in the UK.
“We are delighted with the incredible student response to this campaign,” said Dr Camille Hirons, SELCA’s GP cancer lead for inequalities. “By working with our local universities and making vaccination accessible, we’ve not only protected individuals but also contributed to the long-term reduction of HPV-related cancers. For those who missed the vaccination bus, your local GP practice can still provide the vaccine.”
Kerry Corrigan, Assistant Head of Student Wellbeing Services (Psychological Wellbeing), added: “This was more than a vaccination drive – it was about engaging young people with their health in a fun and approachable way.”