During these events, members spoke freely and some key themes and concerns emerged including LS Pharmacy, workplace pressures, staffing and communication.
Members shared clinical and contractual concerns about using LS Pharmacy in its current state. They felt that essential functions were not thought through and the system was not intuitive or user-friendly. PDA members made it clear that the IT infrastructure is causing increased work pressures and is hindering the delivery of high standards of patient care.
Members expressed that they felt there was a disconnect between what was happening in-store and what Head Office thought was happening, with one member sharing that “it feels like leadership is not delivering change well.”
PDA Reps have been told that overwhelming work pressures are leading to pharmacists working unpaid overtime just to keep afloat in their branches. The PDA wants to reiterate that pharmacists should be paid for all hours worked. Members also expressed concerns that Lloyds continues to cut staff hours making it difficult to be efficient. Stores are being asked to share their staff to cover gaps in other branches. This has led to members feeling that staff are leaving because of the poor implementation of LS Retail and the continued problems stores are experiencing.
Attendees felt that a more streamlined and inclusive communication channel was needed. They said that the continual posts on several platforms mean that the ability to keep teams on the same page is challenging. Other issues raised included the unease and uncertainty surrounding the recent sale of Lloyds to Aurelius, and many concerns surrounding retention of existing employees.
All concerns raised are important and valid, and the PDA Reps Network in Lloyds will continue to highlight employee concerns and work with Lloyds to make the company a better place to work.
PDA members are encouraged to contact their PDA Reps for support, guidance, and advice. They can also check out the PDA’s page on Looop for further information, including how to contact their PDA Reps.
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