The negotiations for the 2026/27 Community Pharmacy Contractual Framework (CPCF) have begun with the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) sending a letter to Community Pharmacy England (CPE) this week, signalling the start of the talks.
The detailed discussions will cover funding, service changes, and other arrangements for pharmacies in 2026/27, as well as presenting an opportunity to consider longer-term plans for the sector.
Whilst recognising the limited time available before the start of the financial year, CPE strongly believes that care must be taken to push for the best possible deal for the sector.
The CPE said they have recently set out the sector’s needs and priorities in a letter to the pharmacy minister Stephen Kinnock – underlining the need to make urgent progress – and confirmed key negotiating positions at their February meeting.
Government requirements dictate that negotiations must remain confidential, but we will update pharmacy owners on the outcomes of these negotiations as early as possible and providing as much detail as we can, it added.
CPE chief executive Janet Morrison said, “The start of negotiations has been long awaited by everyone in the sector, and Community Pharmacy England has been ready for these vital discussions for some time. Pressures on community pharmacies are at a critical level, and decisive action is urgently needed.
The Committee has set out clear negotiating priorities and red lines, and it will be essential to carefully scrutinise the Government’s proposals against these. We will keep working to mould any reforms into measures that are in the best interests of community pharmacies.
Our focus remains on securing a contract that recognises the essential role pharmacies play in primary care, supports those who are struggling, and provides a long term‑ pathway to sustainability and growth.”
NHS England Director for Pharmacy, Optometry and Dentistry Ali Sparke said, “Community pharmacies are a trusted and valued part of local NHS services, giving people easy access to advice and treatment close to home. We will continue to work with industry leaders and the government to support patient access to safe, high-quality services - building on the expanded role pharmacy teams have taken on in recent years.”
