Workforce issues, staff retention and capacity continues to be a big concern for the Local Pharmaceutical Committee as it discussed the topics at a recent meeting with the Pharmaceutical Services Negotiating Committee (PSNC).
The meeting, attended by delegates from 66 LPCs, focused on the current challenges faced by community pharmacies as well as the planning for the next year.
Around 64 per cent of delegates said workforce was the top challenge faced by pharmacy contractors, and suggested reducing the migration of pharmacists to Primary Care Networks (PCNs).
Other suggestions included - "improving the development opportunities available for pharmacists and their teams, and rebranding the profession to make community pharmacy a more attractive route for young graduates."
On the development of Integrated Care Systems (ICS), the majority of respondents were positive about their LPC's engagement in the new setting.
Trainee pharmacists across Great Britain are preparing to participate in Pharmacist Support's annual Trainee ACTNow Wellbeing Campaign, scheduled from
May 20th to 24th.
Organised by the charity, this initiative aims to provide essential support as trainees approach the culmination of their placements and gear up for the General
Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) assessment.
Danielle Hunt, Chief Executive of Pharmacist Support, highlighted the campaign's focus on addressing the significant stress and pressure trainees may experience
during this critical period.
She stated: "We understand the anxiety and pressure they may feel, not only in preparing for the assessment but also in stepping into their roles as registered
pharmacists."
Pharmacist Support has released its 2023 Impact Report, revealing significant growth in digital access and well-being initiatives.
The report shows a 49 per cent increase in website visits and a corresponding 47 per cent rise in pages viewed compared to the previous year.
These improvements reflect the charity's investment in digital infrastructure to enhance access to critical services for pharmacists nationwide.
Additionally, calls to the peer support scheme, Listening Friends, increased by 74 per cent , aided by the introduction of an online referral form.
The charity also reported a 23 per cent rise in financial grants awarded, amounting to £193,528, through a new online grants portal.