PDA Reps play a great part in representing and promoting the PDA at work. With larger groups of PDA members in hospitals, they can support member meetings about issues of concern, such as on-call rotas as well as continuing to promote PDA membership.
In some NHS Trusts, the PDA has local recognition, which means that the PDA has a seat around the table at Staff Partnership meetings (sometimes known as JNCCs). These meetings are where recognised unions meet with senior management to discuss the issues of concern. Having a seat around the table gives pharmacists a voice and representatives are entitled to paid time off to do this work.
With NHS England requiring cuts in running costs of 30%, many ICBs have been carrying out re-structures. PDA Reps in ICBs have been able to meet and support members as they face consultations on changes to the structure, with support from PDA Organiser, Liz Larkin.
In Autumn 2023, the PDA held a successful event for members working in PCNs. The event looked at the PDA’s GP work satisfaction survey and what were the positives and challenges of working as a pharmacist in primary care. The PDA now has recognition in a GP Alliance, which allows for negotiations on pay.
Marina Khan, ICB pharmacist and PDA Workplace Rep said, “As a dedicated PDA Representative in the NHS, I take pride in championing the rights and well-being of our pharmacists. In collaboration with PDA advisers, we work tirelessly to ensure that the voices of our pharmacists are not just heard but acted upon. The PDA provides invaluable support, empowering us to navigate the complexities of the healthcare landscape. Together, we stand united, striving for a fair, supportive, and collaborative environment that recognises and values the contributions of every single pharmacist.”
Get involved
The PDA offers training and mentoring to those who are interested in becoming a PDA Workplace Rep. The initial training is online and gives reps an understanding of the structure of the PDA and also the role of a workplace representative. Those who are interested in becoming a rep can learn more and sign up here.
Learn more
- PDA GP pharmacist members meet to discuss work satisfaction
- PDA members meet to discuss changes in ICBs
- Become a PDA Rep
Not yet a PDA member?
If you have not yet joined the PDA, we encourage you to join today and ask your colleagues to do the same.
Membership is FREE to pharmacy students, trainee pharmacists, and for the first three months of being newly qualified.
Read about our key member benefits here.