The reorganisation has created significant uncertainty for pharmacists across the NHS, with members facing difficult decisions, disruption and increasing pressure at work. The PDA is continuing to support those affected, challenge poor process, and raise wider concerns about workload, wellbeing and the impact on safe patient care.
Support for members leaving through voluntary redundancy
Some PDA members are now leaving through voluntary redundancy, and the PDA has been supporting them through both its legal team and the union. For many, this is not simply a change of role, but the end of years of dedicated service to the NHS. These are emotionally difficult decisions and transitions, and members should know they do not have to face them alone.
Support for members who remain
The PDA understands the intense pressure facing members whose voluntary redundancy applications have been declined or who have chosen to remain in their roles. Many pharmacists are working in an environment with too little clarity about future structures, responsibilities and priorities.
The PDA continues to push at every level for clear plans on workload, service expectations and for considerations about what activity will need to stop if capacity is reduced. Employers have a duty of care to their staff, and that responsibility must be taken seriously.
PDA representation across the country
The PDA is active in many ICBs across the country and is representing members affected by this process nationwide, so it understands that the reorganisation has been chaotic and deeply challenging for pharmacists and their colleagues. Members need to be confident that their voices are being heard, wherever they are based, and the PDA will continue to make sure their concerns are raised locally and nationally.
While each ICB is a separate employer, they should still be following national agreements where these apply. The PDA has therefore also been working to ensure that local messages to members are accurate, including on issues such as clawback arrangements if someone is made redundant and then undertakes Bank work.
A thank you to PDA Reps, and a call for more
The PDA thanks all reps who have stepped up to support members during this period of upheaval. Their contribution has been invaluable in helping colleagues navigate uncertainty and ensuring that concerns are properly represented. However, more reps are needed so that members everywhere can access the support and representation they deserve.
Concerns about accountability and impact
The government must take responsibility for the pace and chaos surrounding this reorganisation. There is a real risk of losing vital skills and organisational memory at a time when the NHS is already under strain. Levels of sickness are high, and the cumulative effect of prolonged uncertainty is being felt across many teams. These issues cannot be ignored if safe and sustainable services are to be maintained.
Liz Larkin, PDA Organiser, said, “The PDA has been working hard to support members in ICBs, NHSE and CSUs. The lack of certainty for over a year is detrimental to both our members; all staff and the stability of these organisations themselves. Ultimately our members care about patient safety and want to be able to deliver safely. Serious questions are being asked about their ability to deliver this.”
Members affected by these changes who are finding the situation difficult may wish to seek confidential wellbeing support through Pharmacist Support. The PDA will continue to stand alongside members throughout this process and press for the protections, clarity and fairness they need.
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