Royal Pharmaceutical Society statement on possible industrial action by NHS employed pharmacists

The Royal Pharmaceutical Society, in keeping with the views of many pharmacists, is concerned that industrial action may impact on patient care and pose a potential risk to their wellbeing. Whilst the responsibility to ensure adequate cover is maintained in the event of any such lawful industrial action rests with employers, we know that pharmacists will do everything they can to ensure that patient care remains a priority.

The Society acknowledges that pharmacists who are members of trade unions have a democratic right to express support for their trade union which includes the choice to support and take part in legal strike action.

We understand that NHS employed pharmacists are concerned about changes to their pensions and how this will affect them. The fact that a mutually acceptable outcome has not yet emerged from discussions between unions and Government is a matter of regret.

We still hope that this issue will be resolved before industrial action is taken, if industrial action is taken we know that pharmacists will be doing everything they can to maintain essential services.

Pharmacists take their professional responsibilities extremely seriously this being borne out by the number of members who have contacted us seeking advice on this issue.

We have issued the following advice to members:

On the question of whether pharmacists are able to vote in the ballot for strike action; we believe that all pharmacists should be able to freely and fairly exercise their democratic right to vote.

The Society has absolute confidence that pharmacists will act in the best interests of patients by maintaining essential services.


Footnote from GHP
GHP understands that the GPhC are not planning to make a statement on the issue of pharmacists taking part in industrial action but the echo the sentiments outlined above.


November 24th 2011