Joint National Plan for Inclusive Pharmacy Practice

A joint plan for inclusive pharmacy practice has been published this week. Health Education England are working collaboratively with NHS England and NHS Improvement, the Royal Pharmaceutical Society and Association of Pharmacy Technicians UK to develop and embed inclusive pharmacy professional practice into everyday care for patients and members of the public, to support the prevention of ill-health and address health inequalities within our diverse communities.

This new national plan for inclusive pharmacy practice is intended to help make the most of the benefits of our workforce’s diversity, for improved and better healthcare provision.

The plan sets out immediate actions for pharmacy professional leaders at all levels and in all care settings to consider, including developing their understanding of the benefits of diverse teams and culturally competent healthcare service delivery; and ensuring the voices of colleagues from a Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic background are represented and heard in decision-making forums at all levels. .

Alan Ryan, Director of National Transformation Programmes, said:

“We know how vital a diverse and inclusive workforce is to deliver improved care for patients. We’re proud to support the Joint National Plan for Inclusive Pharmacy Practice in England. We will continue to support ways of working to ensure that our whole workforce reflects the diversity of the communities we serve.”

The plan and covering letter have been published on the Royal Pharmaceutical Society and Association of Pharmacy Technicians UK websites.

Accompanying resources to support implementation are available via the new Inclusive Pharmacy Practice - FutureNHS Collaboration Platform