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PDA launches new Professional Development service to support pharmacists throughout their careers
A new PDA member service, delivered through an online Member Hub, brings together practical guidance, structured professional support and international pharmacy resources in one accessible location.
Since its inception, the PDA has provided more than 90,000 episodes of support to members facing professional, workplace, legal and regulatory challenges across every sector of pharmacy. Through representing pharmacists in these often complex situations, the PDA has developed extensive practical insight into the realities of professional practice and the risks pharmacists may encounter.
The PDA is now using the lessons learned from those experiences to help pharmacists anticipate and manage similar challenges. Its new Professional Development Support Service, delivered through the online Member Hub, gives members access to a growing collection of resources, professional guidance and practical tools informed by real-world cases and support experience. These are designed to support professional practice, help pharmacists manage risk and assist them throughout their career development. |
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PDA becomes full member of NHS Staff Side Council
Following a two-year period with ‘observer’ status, the PDA is now a full voting member of the NHS Staff Council Staff Side.
At the annual general meeting of the NHS Staff Side Council, which is the group of unions representing over 1 million NHS employees, the existing members voted to support the PDA’s full membership application. The constitution was therefore updated to include the PDA Union as a full voting member and NHS employers and the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) have been advised.
This is a significant moment in the history of the PDA Union, which now provides an effective and independent voice at work exclusively for more than 40,000 of the UK’s pharmacists. |
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PDA delegation attends FIP World Congress to champion UK pharmacists on the global stage
The PDA is proud to have attended the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) World Congress in Montreal, Canada, joining pharmacy leaders, practitioners, researchers, and policymakers from around the world to discuss the future of the profession and its contribution to global health.
With more than 40,000 members, the PDA is the UK’s lead member organisation within FIP. The PDA was represented by a delegation including pharmacists and pharmacy leaders who will engage in discussions on a wide range of issues affecting the profession, including workforce development, professional leadership, patient safety, humanitarian initiatives, and the evolving role of pharmacists in healthcare systems worldwide.
The Congress provided a unique platform for sharing best practice, strengthening international collaboration, and ensuring that the voice of UK pharmacists is heard in global conversations about the future of pharmacy. |
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PDA warns ‘quicker’ access to pharmacy treatment must be properly resourced
The PDA has responded to the government’s announcement that patients in England will be able to access more treatment through community pharmacy, including pharmacist prescribing within Pharmacy First and the Pharmacy Contraception Service.
Learn more |
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Oluomachi Yvonne Okereke elected 51st President of the National Association of Women Pharmacists
The National Association of Women Pharmacists (NAWP) is pleased to announce the results of its recent committee elections, with Oluomachi Yvonne Okereke elected unopposed as President.
Learn more |
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Important update for NHS Pension Scheme members
The NHS Business Services Authority (NHSBSA) has asked the PDA Union and other NHS unions to relay information about potential issues that may have affected pension benefit changes for some NHS Pension Scheme members.
Learn more |
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Boost your skills with free PDA Education training and support
Below is a selection of our upcoming FREE training sessions and events, available exclusively to PDA members. The full list of events currently available can be found on the events section of our website. We recommend checking the website regularly, as new events will continue to be added.
Assessment Revision Programme November 2026
Running until Tuesday 10 November 2026
This self-directed online revision programme is for all PDA trainee and potential pharmacist members who are sitting the registration assessment on Tuesday 10 November 2026. This programme is designed to help you approach your calculations and clinical exams with confidence. Giving you the knowledge and techniques you will need to succeed.
Register today |
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| Locum Matters – 8 October 2026
7 pm to 8.30 pm, Thursday 8 October 2026
This webinar will support members working as or considering working as a locum. The session will cover all the positives and pitfalls of being a locum, including your income and registering for work, top tips for booking a shift, and your rights as a locum.
Register today |
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| Join the PDA at the Pharmacy Show 2026
Sunday 11 October to Monday 12 October 2026
The UK’s leading event for community and primary care pharmacy professionals returns this year to NEC Birmingham from 11 to 12 October 2026. The PDA will deliver two sessions on Sunday 11 October, one on ‘AI in Pharmacy’ and a panel session on ‘Action through allyship’.
Register today |
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| Effective Patient Consultations
6.30 pm to 8 pm, Wednesday 14 October 2026
Enhanced patient consultation skills are a foundation of pharmacy practice. With a focus on communication, shared decision‑making and risk management, this session will explore ways to maximise patient engagement within diverse clinical contexts.
Register today |
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| More to explore…
Continue your development journey with a range of upcoming opportunities designed to help PDA members to grow, adapt, and succeed in their careers. Click any of the events below for more information and to secure your FREE place.
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Join the PDA at the Pharmacy Show 2026!
The UK’s leading event for community and primary care pharmacy professionals returns this year to NEC Birmingham from 11 to 12 October 2026. The PDA will deliver two sessions on Sunday 11 October, one on ‘AI in Pharmacy’ and a panel session on ‘Action through allyship’.
The PDA is proud to once again be supporting the conference. The show offers a great opportunity for community and primary care pharmacists across the UK to come together, learn from expert speakers, and make strategic sector connections.
Find out what the PDA is up to at the show on Sunday 11 October.
AI in Pharmacy: Who is really accountable?Technology & Digital Health Theatre, Sunday 11 October, 10.30 am to 11 am
The session will provide practical examples from pharmacy practice, including patient-facing AI, decision-support systems, documentation tools, and automation within PMR systems, helping pharmacists understand how to use AI safely whilst maintaining professional accountability.
Action through allyshipLeadership, Workforce & Careers Theatre, Sunday 11 October, 5.15 pm to 5.45 pm
This panel event will explore how to be a meaningful ally. Panellists will discuss what allyship is and explain the need for allyship, drawing upon some of the PDA’s cases where absence of allyship resulted in discriminatory employee treatment, as well as the current context and how this is impacting on pharmacists’ experiences at work.
Secure your FREE pass for the showThe Pharmacy Show is FREE to all UK registered healthcare professionals meaning that PDA members can secure their pass for the show for FREE! Pharmacists are encouraged to click below to register for their pass today. |
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Don’t let health inequalities be ignored
The PDA is part of the Health Equals campaign to tackle health inequality, and we’re lobbying the government for action. See below a message from Health Equals:
MPs have a choice.
They can accept a future where health inequalities continue to grow, or they can support action that gives everyone a fairer chance at a healthy life.
The government has the opportunity to take this issue seriously. But lasting change will only happen if decision-makers know the public expects it.
That’s why your voice matters.
Please take two minutes to email your MP and ask them to back our campaign.
Thank you for standing with us,
Health Equals |
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PDA members save 10% on workplace wellbeing training
Creating a workplace where people feel supported starts with giving managers and leaders the knowledge and confidence to make wellbeing part of everyday working life.
As part of our partnership with Pharmacist Support, PDA members receive a 10% discount on the charity’s Embracing a Workplace Wellbeing Culture course.
Developed specifically for the pharmacy profession, the online course is designed for current and aspiring pharmacy managers, supervisors and leaders who want to build healthier, more supportive workplace environments.
Across six modules, participants can develop their understanding of mental health and wellbeing and explore practical approaches to communication, supporting colleagues and creating a positive workplace culture.
The course can be completed online at your own pace, with participants receiving a certificate and digital badge on completion.
PDA members can access 10% off the course. |
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Treat your pets for less with PDA Plus
Planning days out with family and friends, a UK getaway, or a trip to the theatre? PDA Plus offers members access to a wide range of discounts designed to help make summer more affordable.
Pets are part of the family, and the costs of caring for them can quickly add up. Through PDA Plus, members can access exclusive savings at Pets at Home, helping to reduce the cost of everything from food and treats to accessories and pet care essentials.
Whether you’re welcoming a new pet, shopping for your furry friend, or simply topping up on the essentials, this offer is a great way to make your money go further while giving your pets the care they deserve.
Explore the latest PDA Plus offers and start saving today. |
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