The Rt Hon Caroline Nokes MP has written to the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Wes Streeting MP, following concerns raised by independent pharmacists in Romsey and Southampton North.
Local pharmacy owners, who are part of the Independent Pharmacy Contractors Network (IPCN), have warned that one in six pharmacies could be at risk of closure within the next year due to financial pressures and insufficient Government support. To find out more about the pressures felt, Nokes visited Romsey Pharmacy, to meet with respected pharmacist Sultan Sid Dajani, one of Caroline's constituents based in the north of the constituency, who was named Britain's Best Pharmacist in 2014, and the responsible superintendent pharmacist/clinical lead at Romsey Pharmacy, Mita Thakrar.
Ms. Nokes highlighted the serious consequences these closures would have for local communities, stating:
"Independent pharmacies provide a vital service to my constituents, offering urgent NHS prescriptions, health advice, vaccinations, and treatment for minor ailments. They play a crucial role in reducing pressure on GP surgeries and hospitals, yet they are warning that without urgent financial support, many could be forced to close.”
Pharmacies are small, locally-run businesses employing local people, but the financial strain they are under has left them struggling to stay afloat. Ms. Nokes has urged the Government to engage with independent pharmacy owners and ensure they receive sustainable funding to continue delivering essential services.
"It is clear that the Government is asking pharmacies to do more while failing to provide the funding needed to sustain them. The threat of closures is real, and we cannot afford to lose these vital healthcare providers. I have asked the Health Secretary to outline what steps are being taken to secure a new funding package and to ensure that pharmacies are properly supported in the long term."
Ms. Nokes has called on the Department of Health and Social Care to fulfil its legal obligation to fund pharmacies in line with the NHS England Economic Review. She remains committed to ensuring that local communities continue to have access to high-quality, face-to-face healthcare services.
Caroline's letter can be found below:
