PDA 'Locum Matters' event highlights employer pressure tactics on rates

PDA Locum Members Address Key Issues at 'Locum Matters' Event organised virtually called 'Locum Matters'

At the recent 'Locum Matters' online event held on June 25, 2024, members of the Pharmacists' Defence Association (PDA) discussed critical issues facing locum pharmacists, with a disturbing trend taking center stage: employers pressuring locum pharmacists to accept lower rates under the threat of potential pharmacy closures.

The event, organised in response to feedback from PDA locum members, addressed a range of significant topics including training for the recent Pharmacy First Services, respect for professional autonomy, and the need for adequate rest breaks.

However, the issue of rate pressure and pharmacy closures was a focal point.

Several locum pharmacists reported that some employers were leveraging the possibility of pharmacy closures to coerce them into working for lower pay.

This unethical practice has raised alarm within the locum community, highlighting the precarious working conditions many face.

Paul Day, Director of Membership & Communities at the PDA, provided a detailed presentation on locum rates, agency working, and the legalities surrounding cartels.

He also covered the rights of employees, workers, and the self-employed, and the implications of different employment statuses.

Una O’Farrell, PDA National Officer and pharmacist, discussed the opportunities for locum pharmacists to actively participate in the PDA.

She shared successful examples of campaigning and trade union activities from other PDA members, emphasising the power of solidarity.

O’Farrell reiterated that the PDA is the independent certified union for all pharmacists, including locums, and that many issues raised impact the entire profession.

During a FAQ session, participants learned about political lobbying and campaigning on issues such as supervision, staffing, pay, and wellbeing.

PDA National Officer and locum pharmacist, Paul Flynn, urged members to volunteer as PDA Representatives, engage in training, and join the PDA Locum Task Force.

He emphasised the potential for collective action to effect change within the sector.

Flynn stated, “The PDA has an excellent trade union training programme for all reps, including locum members who have stepped up to the challenge ahead.

"I look forward to bringing the PDA Locum Task Force together to support them in prioritising their issues and building their campaigning activity.

"Many issues raised by locum members, such as the Pharmacy First Service, workload, wellbeing, and health and safety, are also faced by all pharmacists.

The PDA is well-positioned to help locum members join forces with pharmacists from other sectors to address these issues with employers and new MPs.”

Sidney, a PDA Locum Representative, shared his experience, saying, “I enjoy being a PDA Locum Rep and feel it is important to be part of leading change.

"Being a rep has enabled me to network with peers across pharmacy sectors and gain valuable information and knowledge.

"From this meeting, I hope we can raise awareness of the challenges locum pharmacists face and unite to amplify our voice through the PDA.”

Collette Bradford, PDA Director for Organising and Engagement, facilitated the event and remarked, “There is strength in locum members understanding their worth and supporting each other on important matters.

"The PDA is the union for all pharmacists, and we look forward to working closely with our PDA Locum Reps Task Force and the broader locum membership to address the issues they have raised.”