The PDA Union is supporting pharmacists currently employed by Boots who have been notified their contract of employment will be transferred to a new employer in October. As the PDA are the union formally recognised to represent these pharmacists, both the current employer (Boots) and the new employer Sodexo Justice Services (SJS) are required to discuss the transfer with the union. The union’s recognition also transfers to the new employer.
Sodexo are bringing pharmacy services, operating across several prisons, inhouse and as a result the pharmacists employed on those contracts are being transferred to the new provider, in this case SJS. As with other transfers from Boots the union will represent the interests of pharmacists before, during and after the transfer.
PDAU officials are already communicating with the small number of pharmacists who will transfer and the union will provide specific support to PDAU members as necessary.
The transfer will further increase the number of employers with whom the PDA Union have formal recognition, including the right to negotiate for improved pay and conditions.
This is a timely reminder for any pharmacist that an employer could decide to transfer the “business unit” where they work to another company, without an option to either remain with their current employer or be compensated if they reject the transfer.
This is a further example of why, wherever they work, pharmacists should join the appropriate trade union for their role so as to secure the necessary expert support should this or a range of other issues impact on their employment or professional practice.