When taking a close look at the pharmacy workforce, this trend is much more noticeable. According to a 2022 GPhC report, of the 61,140 registered pharmacists at the time of the report, 48.1% identified as Asian, black, and/or mixed race. Yet, many pharmacists still experience racism and discrimination at work and in other aspects of everyday life. There is also a significant number of racial incidents in pharmacy that go unreported. Just one racial incident is one too many, especially in such a diverse society.
The PDA upholds Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) values demonstrated by representing and educating its members on their employment rights. The PDA challenges employers to treat pharmacists fairly and empowers its members through its four PDA EDI Networks which aim to tackle issues around discrimination. The PDA also supports members to come together and campaign on issues collectively.
All pharmacists have the right to equitable learning and career development opportunities that would help them achieve their full career potential. Everyone deserves to be treated fairly, to feel respected, valued, and recognised for their hard work and talents. Equally, equality ought to be everyone’s responsibility, regardless of skin colour, racial heritage, age, sex, disability, religion, or belief.
Championing EDI in the early years of a career as a pharmacist isn’t just a noble endeavour but a strategic approach that can contribute to professional growth and fulfilment. It can also contribute to the success of an organisation. This can be accomplished by participating more actively in the PDA. PDA members can do this in a number of ways, such as joining a PDA EDI Network, becoming a PDA Rep, or attending any of the PDA’s online member networking events. Participating in these activities will allow pharmacists to learn valuable skills such as, understanding rights and privileges at work, understanding workplace policies and whether an employer is compliant, learning how to deal with issues as a collective, and promoting a safe and fair work environment.
PDA members who would like to find out more about how to champion EDI at their university or workplace are encouraged to email [email protected].
If a PDA member feels like they have been discriminated against on account of their race or any other protected characteristic, then please contact the PDA Member Support Centre.
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Not yet a PDA member?
If you have not yet joined the PDA, we encourage you to join today and ask your colleagues to do the same.
Membership is FREE to pharmacy students, trainee pharmacists and for the first three months of being newly qualified.
Read about our key member benefits here.