Others are re-sitters who may not be working at all or have taken temporary employment as dispensers until they pass the exam. That could be stressful enough for these new entrants to the profession, but the succession of issues with the assessment has added to the pressure these individuals are under.
Many in the profession are concerned about the consequences of all this on the mental health of this cohort of young professionals and want to help ensure they get the support they need. The PDA has provided ongoing support to this cohort since the exam was originally postponed, both in listening to their issues then representing them to the GPhC, and in practical support, such as our online PDA Education courses. However, we share serious concerns about the potential negative impact on their wellbeing.
We are therefore taking this opportunity to remind all PDA members about our partnership with Pharmacist Support – the profession’s independent charity. We give £1 for each PDA member each year to the charity and you will know that when you join or renew your PDA membership, we also provide the opportunity for you to donate. As a result, donations have surpassed £110,000, making us the largest regular supporter of the charity.
With the funds raised, Pharmacist Support provides a wide variety of support services to pharmacists and their families, former pharmacists, and pharmacy students. This includes financial support, a confidential listening helpline, wellbeing services, addiction support, and much more. This is where pre-reg, prov-reg and re-sitters may turn for critical help, just as you may need to turn to the charity if you ever need similar support.
The charity always needs additional funding and if you are able to support them with a financial contribution at this time, we have created a special donation code that will allow you to give via sending a text. To do this, text PHARMA16 (all one word, no space) to the number below that corresponds to the amount you would like to donate.
To donate £1, text PHARMA16 to 70201
To donate £3, text PHARMA16 to 70331
To donate £5, text PHARMA16 to 70970
To donate £10, text PHARMA16 to 70191
If you would like to make a larger donation, please visit our JustGiving page.