Covid-19: Hancock pays tribute to pharmacists

Health Secretary Matt Hancock has publicly thanked “those who doesn’t usually get mentioned, including pharmacists” for their work in the war against coronavirus (Covid-19).

He promised to “strain every sinew” to get frontline staff everything needed to keep them safe.

Hancock’s message was delivered during the government’s daily Covid-19 briefing on Tuesday (24), via a virtual conference. He was joined by England’s deputy chief medical officer Dr Jenny Harries and medical director of NHS England Professor Stephen Powis.

Responding, Mark Lyonette, NPA chief executive, commented: “It was fantastic to hear a senior politician salute the work of pharmacists and promise more support to maintain staff safety. These promises from the heart of government need to translate quickly into meaningful action that reaches the frontline, for example the urgent provision of effective protective equipment.

“Matt Hancock’s statement surely also implies an immediate flow of funds to help keep pharmacy doors open during this crisis and its aftermath. Together with the other pharmacy bodies, we have already urged the Health Secretary and the Chancellor to act conclusively and without delay.”