The minister engaged with pharmacy staff to discuss the potential of community pharmacies in advancing the government’s ambitious plans for NHS renewal
Stephen Kinnock highlighted the crucial role that pharmacies will play in shifting care from hospitals into the community during his visit to the multi-award-winning Bedminster Pharmacy in Bristol on Thursday, 24 October.
It was his first visit to a community pharmacy since taking office as the minister of state department of health and social care, with responsibility for community pharmacy.
The visit allowed Kinnock to witness firsthand the array of services provided by community pharmacies, positioning them at the centre of accessible neighbourhood population health and wellbeing.
He also engaged with pharmacy staff and patients to understand better the sector’s challenges and its potential to support the government’s agenda for NHS renewal, especially as a public consultation on the future of the NHS is currently underway.
While speaking with members of the Bedminster Pharmacy team, he shared about his journey into public service and the values that drive his work to make a positive difference.
He also took the opportunity to receive his annual winter flu vaccination at the pharmacy.
Reflecting on the visit, Kinnock said: “I was delighted to visit Bedminster Pharmacy today and see first-hand the fantastic work they do. I heard about the challenges that pharmacies and pharmacists face and saw how integral they are to their community.’’
“We inherited a broken NHS, where pharmacies have been neglected for years. As we shift care out of the hospital and into the community, we will support community pharmacies and pharmacists who will be crucial to making a healthcare system fit for the future.”
Ade Williams, MBE, superintendent pharmacist at Bedminster Pharmacy, emphasised the significance of Kinnock’s visit, stating: “Receiving the minister today provided the opportunity to show firsthand how community pharmacy, even in the face of ongoing challenges, continues to make a difference in the lives of our patients.”
“It was good to discuss firsthand our expansive potential to help drive forward the ambitious plans for NHS renewal.”
“I am especially grateful he took the time to talk with our pharmacy team and patients. The dedication of our team and the trust patients invest in us continues to define the values and success of the NHS and our responsibility in community pharmacy as its most accessible outpost.’’
