The RPS Assembly's July meeting discussed the UK Pharmacy Professional Leadership Advisory Board, the ongoing constitutional and governance review conducted by Firetail, and the newly strengthened partnership with Pharmacist Support
The Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS) Assembly confirmed Professor Claire Anderson for her second year in office as President and elected Brendon Jiang as the new RPS Treasurer during its meeting on 17 July 2024.
The Assembly is the key decision-making body of RPS responsible for setting strategic direction, financial management and organisational governance.
During the meeting, Sir Hugh Taylor, Chair of the UK Pharmacy Professional Leadership Advisory Board (UKPPLAB), updated the Assembly on the activities of the Board’s working groups.
He also answered questions from Assembly members, including how to influence the new government, include patient voices in the Board’s work, how the work of the devolved nations is being considered and the importance of research for the profession.
Commenting on the work of the Advisory Board, Anderson said: “The collaborative ethos of the UKPPLAB is inspiring, working closely together we are focusing on strengthening clinical practice, supporting pharmacists and technicians to reach their potential and driving up standards of care to benefit patients and the public.”
She stressed the importance of education, training and credentialling in supporting professionals, along with expanding the scope of practice, to keep pace with rapid changes in healthcare and align more closely with regulators.
“Professional leadership is vital to support developments in the post-registration practice of pharmacy technicians and as well as the first cohort of newly qualified pharmacist prescribers from 2026,” she said, expressing her enthusiasm for collaborating with colleagues on the UKPPLAB to advance these agendas.
Anderson revealed that the constitutional and governance review by Firetail, the organisation appointed for an independent examination of the RPS's decision-making structures, systems, and processes, is ongoing.
They plan to publish Firetail's recommendations soon and engage extensively with members, offering numerous opportunities for involvement in shaping the future of pharmacy.
Regarding the discussion on expanding international partnerships, Anderson commented, Anderson said: “I’m very proud of our new strategy for international work, which reflects our commitment to international partnerships, sharing knowledge and best practice to ensure the global advancement of the pharmacy profession.”
The RPS intends to enhance collaborations with various international bodies such as FIP and the Commonwealth Pharmacists’ Association.
This includes increasing RPS representation on committees, collaborating on educational events, and raising awareness among members about the impact of international work to promote the safe and effective use of medicines in the international arena, as Anderson has stated.
Anderson believes that the newly strengthened partnership between RPS and Pharmacist Support will play a crucial role in supporting the wellbeing and mental health of pharmacists.
Danielle Hunt, CEO of Pharmacist Support, addressed the Assembly to highlight their impact report, annual ACTnow campaign and how the RPS is coordinating efforts to support the profession.
“Our partnership also opens up avenues for deeper engagement and joint initiatives to empower pharmacists and enhance their experience of the workplace,” Anderson added.
Sukhi Basra