Key Summary
- The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) and NHS England are yet to begin formal 2026/27 CPCF negotiations.
- CPE's top priority is to negotiate a more sustainable CPCF and shape a multi‑year roadmap for long‑term certainty.
- The work plan also emphasises influencing the government and building political backing.
Community Pharmacy England (CPE) recently held a full committee meeting in London to finalise key negotiating positions for the imminent 2026/27 Community Pharmacy Contractual Framework (CPCF) negotiations with the government.
The committee members met on February 4 and 5, examined economic and other analyses, and looked at a wide range of topics, including funding needs, services, infrastructure investment, and regulatory reform.
The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) and NHS England have not yet begun formal 2026/27 CPCF negotiations with CPE.
The CPE's top priority is to negotiate a more sustainable CPCF – including improved margin delivery, fees, reimbursement – and shape a multi‑year roadmap with DHSC and NHS England to give pharmacies clearer long‑term certainty.
The work plan also emphasises influencing government and building political backing, as well as helping LPCs strengthen commissioning opportunities and support neighbourhood team integration.
CPE chief executive Janet Morrison said, “The pressures on community pharmacies are critical, and the sector simply cannot bear more time without meaningful investment and reform. Our message to the government is clear: community pharmacies need immediate, sustainable investment.
“Committee Members have carefully reviewed the economic evidence and set strong, coherent positions on funding, services and the regulatory reforms needed to unlock capacity.
"We will continue to push for 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. We stand ready to begin negotiations as soon as Ministers issue the opening letter.”
The LPC leaders from the East and North Midlands region also took part in the meeting. They interacted with committee members, observed subcommittee meetings, and provided feedback from their local pharmacy owners and localities.
The meeting also explored possible future options for contract reform and funding models, and considered CPE’s budget, workplan and priorities for the next financial year.
The Committee heard and reflected on personal stories of patient abuse from the polling done by CPE, and members discussed raising awareness and ways to support affected pharmacy teams.
All subcommittees reported on progress across their workstreams.
The Funding and Contract Subcommittee considered the latest progress on active discussions on branded generics and accelerated payments, while the Legislation and Regulatory Subcommittee members reflected on concerns raised about the shortening of the Pharmacy First claim window.
The LPC and Contractor Support Subcommittee finalised the approach for an upcoming review of the Transforming Pharmacy Representation (TAPR) programme.
