PDA pledges 'full support' to Rowlands pharmacists

The Pharmacists’ Defence Association (PDA) has pledged full support to its members at Rowlands pharmacies with appropriate help to protect their legal and contractual rights.

This follows Rowlands’ announcement on Monday (October 5) to cut pharmacy opening hours by an average of ten hours per week early in 2021. Pharmacists at Rowlands see the latest move of the company as potential job cuts.

The PDA also assured them of working "appropriately with the company to find agreed solutions with our members whenever possible.”

“This is the latest major closure announcement from a pharmacy multiple in the community sector following significant cuts to government funding for community pharmacy over recent years and sadly it may not be the last,” PDA noted.

The association added: “Our immediate concerns are about the livelihoods and wellbeing of our members who may find themselves in one of the affected Rowlands pharmacies.

“Many employees will have statutory protections regarding their contracts, job security and/or redundancy entitlement; however, we urge any affected PDA members to contact us so that we can provide advice on their individual position. The PDA team includes experts in employment law so we can help with many aspects of such a change.”

PDA has urged the employer to invest in adequate staffing and other resources for the long-term benefit of all.

Mark Pitt, director of defence at PDA, said: “Our members at Rowlands will be understandably concerned about this announcement.  We are already hearing from those who expect to be directly affected and others who have worries about their pharmacy.  Once more details are known we will be able to help individuals with any specific concerns.

“Pharmacists can be reassured that the PDA will help members protect their employment rights and ensure they are treated fairly.  Members should contact us for advice if they are impacted by these proposed changes.”