Earlier this week, the PDA responded to suggestions that up to 50% of the combined NHS and DHSC jobs would be cut in restructuring. Since then, the 42 Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) which are the equivalent of Health Boards in the other UK nations, have been told to cut their running costs in half by December 2025. ICBs had already been ordered to cut running costs by 20 per cent over the past two years.
On 13 March, the Prime Minister and Health Secretary have now confirmed that the government’s plan is to abolish NHS England entirely as a arm’s length body and to move its responsibilities into the DHSC.
Jay Badenhorst, PDA Director of Pharmacy said, “This is a dramatic change in England’s approach to the health service, and a level of reform which has not been attempted before. This will have an impact on all areas of pharmacy practice, and of course impact jobs. With these reforms it is also a perfect opportunity to have the voice of the workforce during contract negotiations.
Making full use of the professional contribution of pharmacists is a critical requirement if the health service is to reach it’s potential and on the pharmacy policy side, we will respond appropriately in regards to the opportunities and risks to the provision of care this presents as details become clearer. As the only trade union exclusively for pharmacists we will also support our members in regard of their job security or fair treatment if their employment should end.”
The PDA represents pharmacists wherever they practice or are employed and that includes within the central and regional NHS England functions and ICBs. The PDA will support individuals impacted by this announcement and will enable them to understand and exercise their rights as employees, although it is too early for most individuals to know what this will mean for their particular role.
A general briefing regarding redundancies, which PDA members at the NHS or DHSC may find helpful, is available to download for free here. PDA members who have already contacted the PDA for advice on this situation do not need to get in contact again unless there are developments with their situation.
Members can contact the PDA Member Support Centre in confidence to talk about any workplace concern or query. The PDA is also concerned for the general wellbeing of members affected by this announcement. In addition to the support and representation available from the PDA, pharmacists should consider the personal support provided by Pharmacist Support.
Learn more
- PDA responds to suggestions that up to 50% of central NHS England/DHSC jobs could be cut
- PDA redundancy guide launched following events to support members
- Pharmacist Support
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