Damaging property, attacking the police and members of the public, looting shops, and lighting fires are crimes.
Pharmacists are dedicated health professionals who care for patients from all parts of the community. PDA members, their families, and the patients they serve reflect the diversity of modern UK.
Hospital pharmacists will be among the multi-disciplinary teams who are caring for those who have been injured, meanwhile, pharmacists in the community or GP practices may see patients affected in different ways.
There are pharmacies in the very heart of most communities, often in high streets, providing vital care, advice, and medicines to the public. These premises need to be able to continue to serve the community without staff fearing for their well-being, or patients worrying about attending the pharmacy when collecting essential medicines or to access services.
The PDA is calling on those that employ PDA members to ensure that they are adequately communicating with those in locations where any conflict may occur and prioritise the health and safety of staff and patients. This includes taking whatever measures necessary to keep them from harm.
PDA members who are concerned about their safety should ensure they engage with their managers/employer in the first instance. Should they encounter any unreasonable lack of support from management, members can contact the PDA Member support Centre for further advice. The local police should also be notified of any criminal activity, including violence.
The PDA sends support to all those who are dealing with the violent disorder firsthand, as well as any victims of violence.
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.