Cabinet Minister visits Ettingshall Pharmacy
The Rt Hon Pat McFadden MP, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, visited Ettingshall Pharmacy in Wolverhampton today (21st August) to see firsthand how pharmacy teams support their local communities.
During the visit, Mr McFadden met with the pharmacy team, alongside Community Pharmacy England Funding Director Mike Dent and and Community Pharmacy Black Country CEO Stephen Noble, to discuss how community pharmacies are helping people live well for longer. From supporting patients with common conditions to providing vaccinations, pharmacy teams are delivering a growing range of healthcare services close to home.
Mr McFadden asked about what pharmacy can offer and the work going on locally with various Government-backed regional investment workforce initiatives.
The Cabinet Minister’s visit was an important opportunity to highlight the realities of working in community pharmacy, including the growing demand for its services and the ongoing financial and operational challenges for the sector.
Community Pharmacy England Funding Director Mike Dent said:
“We were pleased to help welcome Pat McFadden MP to Ettingshall Pharmacy and show him the vital role pharmacy teams play in supporting patients and the NHS every day. It was valuable to discuss with such a key Government figure how community pharmacies can help improve health outcomes, support people to remain independent, and reduce pressure on other parts of the NHS.”
Put community pharmacy on your MP’s agenda
MP visits are a powerful way to build awareness of community pharmacy, strengthen the sector’s voice in Parliament, and influence decision-makers. Pharmacy owners and LPCs can organise their own visits to help local MPs better understand the value of pharmacy teams and the critical issues affecting our sector.
Our Engaging with local politicians guidance includes key messages, practical tips and resources to help you make the most of an MP visit.
For support, contact our Comms and Public Affairs team at comms.team@cpe.org.uk.
