The PDA is calling on employers to do all they can to support the safety of pharmacists and patients in areas at risk of conflict
The Pharmacists’ Defence Association (PDA) has reported growing concerns among its members regarding their safety at work as the far-right, anti-immigration riots escalate across the UK.
“We have received calls from members who are concerned about their safety at work and feel vulnerable in communities where the violence and disorder are taking place,” the organisation told Pharmacy Business.
The PDA also reported that some hospital outpatient departments and GP surgeries were forced to close their doors to allow staff to get home safely, which may impact services to patients.
In light of these challenges, the PDA is calling on employers to ensure that they are adequately communicating with pharmacists in locations at risk of conflict and to prioritise the health and safety of staff and patients.
“We are aware that pharmacists and their teams working in areas where this criminal activity is taking place are feeling vulnerable but that they also want to ensure that their communities are safe and have access to the vital services pharmacies provide.
“We are calling on employers to do all they can to support the safety and wellbeing of their staff,” the PDA told Pharmacy Business.
This includes taking all necessary measures to protect them from harm.
The PDA advises members to first engage with their managers or employers if they are concerned about their safety.
If they encounter any unreasonable lack of support from management, members are encouraged to contact the PDA Member Support Centre for further advice.
Additionally, members are advised to report any criminal activity, including violence, to the local police.
‘Not being racist is not enough, we must all be anti-racist’
The PDA has voiced strong condemnation of the far-right riots, while expressing their support for the pharmacist community.
“Not being racist is not enough. We must all be anti-racist.”
“The PDA condemns any acts of violence and discrimination, and we stand with the pharmacist community who are dedicated health professionals who care for all patients.”
The PDA noted that its BAME Pharmacists’ Network is consistently acting to tackle racism not only in the workplace but also in wider society.
In response to the current crisis, the PDA is also ensuring that its staff are safe getting to and from work by providing transport where necessary, thereby maintaining their ability to support members during this difficult time.
The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to a zero-tolerance policy against Islamophobia and all forms of racism.
The PDA said: “We are aware that morale among NHS staff is very low and that communities are fearful about the current situation.
“We know that our members are concerned about their personal safety, as well as that of their local communities, and are doing all they can to support them at this time, wherever they are.
“We wholeheartedly condemn the recent violence that has been seen in UK towns and cities. It needs to stop.
“We are sending our support to all those who are dealing with the violent disorder firsthand, as well as any victims of violence.
“We stand united in having a zero tolerance of islamophobia and all forms of racism.”
The PDA and other pharmacy bodies including General Pharmaceutical Council (GPHC), Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS), Company Chemists Association (CCA), Association of Pharmacy Technicians UK (APTUK), National Pharmacy Association (NPA), Guild of Healthcare Pharmacists, and Independent Pharmacies Association (IPA) have earlier issued a joint statement, declaring zero tolerance for racism towards colleagues or the public in any form.
