UWE Bristol and Bedminster Pharmacy to pioneer antimicrobial stewardship

The collaboration between UWE Bristol and Bedminster Pharmacy to address societal challenges

In a collaborative effort to combat the escalating threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), UWE Bristol and Bedminster Pharmacy have secured grant funding from the UKRI Regional Innovation Fund (RIF) for a groundbreaking 4-month project.

This initiative aims to revolutionise antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) practices at the community pharmacy level, addressing the pressing need for evidence-based approaches in tackling AMR.

With antibiotic misuse contributing significantly to the rise of AMR, the project underscores the vital role of community pharmacies in promoting responsible antibiotic use.

Mr Ade Williams, Superintendent Pharmacist at Bedminster Pharmacy, emphasised the significance of this endeavour, stating:

‘‘The emerging role of Community Pharmacy offering timely accessible clinical interventions, including prescribing antibiotics, will undoubtedly help address the increasing demands on the NHS."

"It is also an exciting opportunity to embed evidence-based AMS principles and practice. Aligning these opportunities effectively is an important challenge to address, and I am grateful for this project," he continued.

Led by Dr Emmanuel Adukwu from the Centre for Research in Biosciences (CRIB) at UWE Bristol, the project promises to deliver innovative solutions to enhance AMS practices.

Dr Adukwu brings extensive expertise in antimicrobial resistance and infection prevention, ensuring a robust scientific foundation for the project.

Joining the endeavour is Obiageli Okolie, a post-doctoral researcher at UWE Bristol, renowned for her contributions to public health research.

Okolie's expertise in antimicrobial resistance and stewardship toolkit development further enriches the project's potential impact.

Reflecting on the collaboration, Mr Ade Williams expressed enthusiasm, affirming his excitement  about "working with the UWE to improve our pharmacy practice and combat antimicrobial resistance together."

Dr Vincent Cheng, a community pharmacist and Lecturer at the University of Bristol, commended the partnership, stating:

"“I am very impressed by the wealth of knowledge and experience brought by the UWE team.

I am confident that they will provide an evidence-based solution to improve pharmacists’ knowledge and practice in the area [antimicrobial resistance]," he added.

The Regional Innovation Fund (RIF) serves as a cornerstone in supporting transformative projects like this.

It fosters collaboration between universities and local industries to address pressing societal challenges.

Through initiatives like this, stakeholders are poised to make meaningful strides in safeguarding public health and promoting sustainable antimicrobial stewardship.