During the interview, Paul Day discussed that the pay negotiations between the PDA and Boots had failed to reach an agreement because Boots’ offer continues to reduce the purchasing power of the salary of most pharmacists they employ.
A few days earlier the Company Chemists Association (CCA) described in a media release a ‘workforce crisis’ because their members, including Boots, are struggling to retain and recruit pharmacists.
Paul explains why a better pay offer would help Boots in recruiting new pharmacists and could help boost morale for their existing pharmacists so that they retain more too.
The PDA’s objective from the current pay talks is to try to secure a fair pay offer for pharmacists. During the interview, Paul also explains that the PDA is trying to avoid pharmacists potentially taking industrial action, but this will be considered if it is deemed necessary while emphasising the commitment of all pharmacists to ensure patient safety and prioritise their care.
The interview starts 22 minutes into the show.
Please note that as of 22 November 2021, this recording will be available for 29 more days on the BBC iPlayer.
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