LloydsPharmacy pharmacists who joined the meeting were also given an update on current pay negotiations and were invited to talk about the issues important to them and explore working life at the company as a group.
Members spoke about feeling isolated and explored how they can connect to peers and colleagues. They agreed that having regular PDA member meetings regionally and nationally was a vital way of networking and sharing experiences and there was a focus on reaching and engaging part time and relief pharmacists. Attendees felt that get together events, both face to face and virtual, are a positive way to encourage connection between teams and colleagues from different stores. They further suggested that we request the return of forums within the company.
Members also discussed challenges in communication and suggested regular surveys to gauge feedback from members which would be used by the reps to inform the direction of their conversations with the employer. Members expressed thoughts on social media and its usefulness whilst being mindful that not all members are on social media and keen on its use for professional life.
Other important issues raised by members included concerns about sick pay, low morale and staffing issues. Members reported ongoing LS Pharmacy problems and wanted clarity on the Optime model the company uses. There were concerns around unpaid training and having to complete learning in own time. With regards to workload pressures, one member stated “when did this being the norm become acceptable?”
Reps discussed how some of these concerns voiced by members can be addressed. The reps are thankful for the valuable feedback and explained how they will use this in their various communication with the company. Reps said that some of the issues are being or will be raised at the PJCC quarterly meetings, with pay and other terms and conditions being discussed via the Pay negotiations meetings. The reps also recommended that certain matters should be highlighted by members with their Regional Managers using PDA Union tools and advice.
The PDA Reps Network in LloydsPharmacy encourages members to contact us at the earliest opportunity and are more than happy to provide support. LloydsPharmacy pharmacists can access the PDAU Hub on Looop for the latest information and for the contact details for PDA Reps.
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