Sir Gavin Williamson has joined Northwood Pharmacy in urging the Labour Government to address the critical need for adequate funding as ‘many pharmacies are being pushed to the brink.’
The pharmacy in Penkridge has expressed the need for drastic action as they highlight pharmacies will be forced to close without Government intervention. The Government has been criticised for failing to address the concerns of the sector, with Pharmacy Minister Stephen Kinnock MP unable to confirm how many times he has met with the sector’s negotiator.
The Government has been accused of dithering on funding contracts, with Ministers refusing to outline when the consultation will be concluded which sets out the funding contract on the Community Pharmacy Framework.
Without this clarity, pharmacists are unclear how they can successfully deliver community services and continue to relieve pressure on GP’s.
Harvey Norwood, Chairperson and Director of Northwood Dispensing Chemists Ltd said: “Every day, pharmacies across England are dispensing medicines at a loss and this simply cannot continue.
“The Labour Chancellor Rachel Reeves has implemented several draconian tax increases that will affect all businesses, not just Community Pharmacy.
“With the recent changes in National Insurance implemented by Rachel Reeves, the consensus is that these increases are expected to cost an average pharmacy an additional £15,000 per annum. Without the appropriate funding contract in place, many more pharmacies will disappear off the high street.”
Sir Gavin said: “Pharmacies are extremely valuable to our communities – particularly in rural areas, where accessing GP appointments can be more difficult. Not only do pharmacists provide valuable advice and support, but they also deliver clinical services which frees up more GP appointments.
“Labour continue to show that they are out of touch with the pharmaceutical sector by refusing to clarify when the funding contracts will be issued. Sadly, this causes more and more pharmacies to close their doors – leaving residents without this vital service, and increasing the pressure on GP’s and hospitals.
“Pharmacies are being pushed to the brink and now is the time to act. I urge the Government to act now before more pharmacies are forced to shut their doors for good.”
