Pharmacy has a way of getting under the skin of those who work in the sector, and this is certainly the case for Lisa Archer

Initially leaving the profession after 14 years to work in a veterinary practice, she returned four years later and has now worked in Fields Pharmacy in Brighton, West Sussex for eight years. 

Lisa works in the dispensary and on the counter, but her role as a health champion led to her receiving a highly commended in the Healthy Living Advisor category at the Recognition of Excellence (RoE) Awards. Her stop smoking service efforts are exemplary – judge and Avicenna chief Salim Jetha described them as “beyond expectation” – with her visiting customers at home to offer support and encouragement in their quit attempt.

Lisa says: “It might seem a small thing initially – sometimes people just need a chat and friendly ear – but it can lead to other issues. In the past, this had led to medication compliance issues coming up and then an MUR, or a blood pressure check, which then leads onto a visit to the GP. It’s important to start these conversations, as they can end up making a big difference.”