The influenza immunisation programme in the UK started in the 1960s and has since been extended to offer protection to those groups most vulnerable to the infection. The extension of the programme to children aims to directly protect them and reduce transmission of the virus to those around them. Early results from pilots run in England reveal reduction of influenza in areas where all primary school-age children were offered immunisation. Uptake among pre-school children has remained low in the first three years of the programme and there are opportunities to increase acceptance among parents. General practice nurses (GPNs) are among those most trusted in informing and reassuring parents about the benefits of immunisation. This article gives GPNs the background and rationale for the programme, and outlines supporting information available to assist them in this challenging and important role as an immuniser.