VACCINATIONS: All vaccinations delivered by suitably trained pharmacists have always been covered by indemnity insurance as part of the standard PDA membership apart from Covid-19. For new membership renewals after January 1st, 2026, Covid-19 vaccinations are now also automatically covered.

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Insight Online – May 2026

This month, we highlight key developments in pharmacy practice, including updates on Health Ministers and the Single Patient Record. We also share advice on working in hot weather and guidance for trainee pharmacists ahead of the June 2026 assessment. Plus, meet the PDA Education team, committed to helping you grow and thrive in pharmacy, and explore upcoming FREE training and support available exclusively to PDA members.

Fri 29th May 2026 Charlotte Haile

In this issue:
  • PDA responds to changes to Health Ministers
  • Single Patient Record confirmed in NHS Modernisation Bill announced in King’s Speech
  • Extreme May heat highlights growing risks in pharmacy workplaces
  • Preparing for placements: A practical guide for pharmacy students
  • Are you fit to sit the June 2026 assessment?
  • PDA stands with pharmacists affected by NHS reorganisation
  • Latest news
  • The faces behind PDA Education
  • Take advantage of FREE training and support through PDA Education
  • What can you save with PDA Plus?
  • Understanding indemnity arrangements for pharmacists

PDA responds to changes to Health Ministers

The PDA is a non-party political organisation and will work with all those who form the administration or the opposition in each of the UK’s national governments. Each government shapes their own National Health Service and broader health system, and their decisions have a direct impact on the day-to-day practice of pharmacists.As a leadership body, the PDA works hard to engage with all such decision makers to ensure that they hear the collective voice of employed and locum pharmacists and understand the reality of practice, its challenges and its opportunities.

Following the result of the Senedd election in Wales, there is an inevitable change to the individuals responsible for the health portfolio, and the PDA looks forward to working with Mabon ap Gwynfor MS, the new Health & Social Care Secretary and his team. Likewise, while the lead party in the Scottish Parliament remains the same, it could be that the ministerial team there changes too.
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Single Patient Record confirmed in NHS Modernisation Bill announced in King’s Speech

The confirmation that a Single Patient Record will be included in the NHS Modernisation Bill is an important policy development. If it is delivered properly, it could improve the safe delivery of clinical care across all settings in England. But that will only happen if pharmacists in all parts of the service are given the access they need to practise safely and effectively, consistent with long-standing PDA policy.In the King’s Speech on 13 May, the government set out plans for an NHS Modernisation Bill that will reshape the way the health service is organised and managed. Within that package is legislation for a Single Patient Record intended to bring relevant health and care information together. For pharmacy, this is not a technical add-on. It is a policy issue that goes directly to whether every clinician can access the information they need to deliver safe, timely and effective care.

According to reports published after the speech, the new record is intended to give clinicians across primary and secondary care quicker access to relevant patient information, while also enabling patients to view their records securely through the NHS App. Initial implementation is expected to focus on maternity and frailty care by 2028, with wider rollout to follow.
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Extreme May heat highlights growing risks in pharmacy workplaces

As the UK experiences one of its hottest Mays on record, the PDA is warning that extreme temperatures are becoming an increasing workplace risk. With heatwave conditions arriving earlier and reaching unprecedented levels, employers must take proactive steps to protect pharmacists and pharmacy teams.

Temperatures have already reached 34.8°C, the highest ever recorded in May in the UK, with widespread highs above 30°C and unusually warm overnight conditions. This level of heat is rare for May and brings clear health risks.

Amber heat‑health alerts have been issued across large parts of England, underlining the dangers of prolonged exposure to high temperatures, particularly for those with underlying health conditions.
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Preparing for placements: A practical guide for pharmacy students

Pharmacy students have made it clear that they need clearer guidance when preparing for placements. In response, the PDA has developed a practical guide to support students as they step into the workplace for the first time.

Learn more

Are you fit to sit the June 2026 assessment?

The PDA is offering advice to those eligible to sit the June 2026 assessment. It is important to understand the options available to those who feel they may not be able to sit.

Learn more

PDA stands with pharmacists affected by NHS reorganisation

As NHS restructuring continues to create uncertainty across Integrated Care Boards (ICBs), NHS England and Commissioning Support Units (CSUs), the PDA is supporting pharmacists through redundancy processes, workplace pressures and ongoing organisational change.

Learn more
Below is a list of the other key news stories that have been published on our website since the last issue of Insight Online:

28/5/26 – PDA Union – 2026 AGM calling notice

27/5/26 – PDA Emerging Leaders Programme returns following successful first cohort

27/5/26 – MLAs respond to GP Federation Pharmacists’ call for pay equity

19/5/26 – Empowering students: A two-time pharmacy leadership award winner’s journey

18/5/26 – PDA survey highlights ongoing pressures facing UK pharmacists

12/5/26 – Northern Ireland Healthcare Awards 2026

11/5/26 – Raising awareness of Functional Neurological Disorder

7/5/26 –  Finding my voice in pharmacy: Becoming a PDA Workplace Rep

6/5/26 – PDA is doubling donations to Pharmacist Support until 15 May
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The faces behind PDA Education

The PDA Education team is passionate about supporting pharmacists at every stage of their careers. With a wealth of expertise, the team delivers high-quality training, learning opportunities, and practical guidance tailored to your needs. Be sure to get to know the people committed to helping you grow and thrive in pharmacy. The team consists of:

  • Kate Kensington, PDA Head of Education
  • Caroline Holmes, PDA Lead Content Developer and Tutor
  • Michelle Yeomans, PDA Pharmacist Teacher Practitioner Coordinator
  • Helen Lewis, PDA Education Officer
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE TEAM HERE

Take advantage of FREE training and support through PDA Education

Below is a selection of our upcoming FREE training sessions and events, available exclusively to PDA members. The full list of events currently available can be found on the events section of our website. We recommend checking the website regularly, as new events will continue to be added.

The Science Behind Wellbeing 

7 pm – 8.30 pm, Monday 15 June 2026

This online workshop, delivered in partnership with Pharmacist Support, is designed to help PDA members manage stress and support their mental health and wellbeing. The session explores how stress affects the mind and body and introduces practical, evidence‑based approaches to coping, including relaxation and meditation, self‑care, sleep, relationships, and the neuroscience behind effective stress‑management techniques. This session will be delivered by Melissa Cochrane, Wellbeing Development Manager at Pharmacist Support.

Register today

Introduction to being a PDA Rep

1 pm to 2.30 pm, Tuesday 7 July 2026

This online interactive workshop is for all PDA Representatives who have completed the online induction. It is designed to follow the self-directed reps induction programme and gives you the opportunity to meet other new reps. You will gain more of an understanding of the role and the rights of a trade union rep. You will also learn the importance of workplace policies and procedures.

Register today

Building Your Professional Identity Through Action Planning and Coaching

6.30 pm to 8 pm, Wednesday 15 July 2026

Professional identity is shaped continually throughout a pharmacist’s career, influenced by values, experiences, workplace culture and evolving expectations of the profession. This workshop introduces a coaching‑based approach to help pharmacists develop their professional identity. Through reflective practice, action planning and portfolio‑building techniques, participants will explore how who they are as professionals informs what they do.

Register today

Neurodiversity at work

6.30 pm to 8 pm, Tuesday 18 August 2026

This online interactive workshop is designed to introduce neurodiversity and what it means to be neurodivergent. The workshop will explore the barriers that exist in the workplace that prevent full participation at work, the role of the employer in supporting neurodivergent workers, and the actions that PDA members can take to support neurodivergent workers.

Register today
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What can you save with PDA Plus?

As a PDA member, you unlock a range of exclusive PDA Plus offers tailored to you. Enjoy access to valuable discounts and benefits designed to make everyday life easier, support your ambitions, and help you feel at your very best.

Set sail for less with exclusive Cruise118 savings through PDA Plus. Whether you’re planning a luxury escape or a last‑minute getaway, members can unlock fantastic value on a wide range of cruise holidays worldwide. This deal includes:

  • Saving up to 40–60% on selected cruise deals and packages
  • Extra money off your booking, with offers including up to £300 per trip or £50+ discounts on selected sailings
  • Exclusive online savings and added perks, such as onboard credit or reduced deposits on certain cruises

From Mediterranean adventures to Caribbean getaways, PDA Plus helps you get more from your holiday budget—so you can relax knowing you’ve secured a great deal.

To take advantage of this offer and other fantastic deals, log in to your PDA Plus account and visit the special offers page. 
LOG IN TO YOUR PDA PLUS ACCOUNT TODAY

Understanding indemnity arrangements for pharmacists

Insurance can be a complex matter, and to help you to understand the risks associated with ‘contingent indemnity’ and to contrast it with the indemnity that comes with PDA membership, we have produced a short video.

We hope that this allows you to better understand and therefore consider the issue in a more informed way.

The Pharmacists' Defence Association is a company limited by guarantee. Registered in England; Company No 4746656.

The Pharmacists' Defence Association is an appointed representative in respect of insurance mediation activities only of
The Pharmacy Insurance Agency Limited which is registered in England and Wales under company number 2591975
and is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (Register No 307063)

The PDA Union is recognised by the Certification Officer as an independent trade union.

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