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A new survey has highlighted growing concerns about pharmacists' increasing workload and their often-overlooked role within the healthcare systems. In the survey commissioned by consumer health company Kenvue, over 90 per cent of pharmacists reported a workload increase over the past year, with only 37 per cent considering their current workload sustainable. Their primary concerns include the impact of workload on wellbeing, expanding clinical roles and services, and challenges with staff recruitment and retention. Pharmacists reported spending most of their time advising patients on common ailments such as coughs, colds, pain, and allergies. However, they spend significantly less time on preventive services, which could further reduce pressure on the wider healthcare system. For instance, only seven pharmacists focus primarily on smoking cessation, and just four per cent on oral health. The survey also highlighted pharmacists' sense of being undervalued, with only 22 per cent feeling valued by policymakers, despite their significant contributions to primary care provision.

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."

The Royal Pharmaceutical Society's (RPS) second roundtable on workforce wellbeing resulted in a series of collaborative actions to address pharmacy professionals' mental health and wellbeing challenges. The roundtable brought together key stakeholders from the pharmacy sector, including organisations like the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC), Community Pharmacy England (CPE), the National Pharmacy Association (NPA), and the profession's independent charity Pharmacist Support (PS). A report detailing the outcomes of the meeting was published on Friday, highlighting the key areas of discussion and the agreed-upon actions by the participants. During the roundtable, participants discussed the importance of understanding the workforce demographics, both nationally and locally, and using data to address wellbeing issues effectively. They also emphasised the need for using supportive standards set by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) and the Care Quality Commission (CQC) quality statement to support and empower pharmacists' wellbeing positively.

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.

The mental health challenges faced by pharmacists are a significant concern that is frequently discussed within the industry today. The Royal Pharmaceutical Society's (RPS) fifth annual workforce wellbeing survey indicated that 86% of pharmacists are at a high risk of burnout. Key factors contributing to this burnout include inadequate staffing, poor work-life balance, and extended working hours. Mental Health UK also identifies burnout as one of the most pressing issues affecting modern workplaces. According to the charity's Burnout Report released in January 2024, 9 in 10 adults in the UK reported experiencing high or extreme stress in the past year. The charity warns that burnout may increase the risk of developing mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety, underscoring the need for serious attention. Today, on World Mental Health Day, we reflect on the theme, "It is time to prioritise mental health in the workplace."

"It is crucial that patients can access care when they need it, whether from a pharmacist or a GP, " Paul Rees, Chief Executive of the National Pharmacy Association (NPA) has said. In response to a recent survey conducted by the General Medical Council (GMC) highlighting alarming trends among General Practitioners (GPs), the NPA has issued a warning about the growing crisis in the UK's primary care system. Rees emphasised the urgent need for government intervention, saying, "Only by reversing these cuts and providing pharmacies with a new funding deal will we be able to end the 8am scramble for appointments." The GMC survey reveals that there is a significant increase in the number of doctors reducing their working hours to safeguard their wellbeing, spotlighting concerns about the long-term impact on patient care. According to the report, nearly half of GPs ( 48 per cent) are struggling to manage their workload, with several resorting to decreasing their hours or declining additional work to protect their mental and physical health.