PSNC has been working to ensure that politicians and other policy influencers understand the value of community pharmacy at each of the three main party conferences in England.

Working with the other pharmacy organisations, PSNC’s objective was to expand and develop community pharmacy’s pool of supporters and intensify political pressure. This was to ensure that the parties understood the value of community pharmacy services to the NHS, patients and wider society and all that the sector can do to ease pressure on GP practices and A&E, and support patients and local communities.

Zoe Long, PSNC head of communications and public affairs, said: “As we head into the winter period we must ensure that Parliamentarians understand the very serious cashfl ow issues currently facing community pharmacies, and the potentially devastating impact that any reduction in pharmacy services would have on the wider NHS and patients.”