Pharmacy owners across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland have voted to reduce their services, including cutting opening hours and halting home deliveries, in protest over government funding. The National Pharmacy Association (NPA), which represents about 6,500 community pharmacies, is calling for a £1.7 billion annual funding increase to address financial shortfalls. The vote saw 99% of responding pharmacies in favor of limiting services unless funding improves, with 64% of independent pharmacies taking part.
This decision follows a decade of budget cuts, with core funding for pharmacies in England falling by 40% since 2015-16. The NPA cites rising costs, including staffing and rent, and a reduction in government support as key reasons behind the vote. If funding is not increased, pharmacies may withdraw additional services such as emergency contraception and smoking cessation programs. The NPA emphasizes that the sector is under severe financial strain, with 700 pharmacies closing in the past two years. The government has called for collaboration to create a sustainable future for the sector, but many pharmacy owners are expressing frustration with the lack of support.
What steps can be taken to address the financial pressures facing community pharmacies and ensure they continue to serve their local communities effectively?