During this time of national crisis when access to GP surgeries and A&E departments has understandably been restricted, community pharmacies have kept their doors open to provide not only life-saving medication but healthcare support and advice.

We are on the frontline in the fight against COVID-19. We are supporting our local communities as best we can and ask you to support us.

After years of funding cuts, many pharmacies are facing closure. Surely, the COVID-19 outbreak has demonstrated the value of community pharmacy as an invaluable local healthcare asset: we are the third pillar in our national healthcare service alongside GP surgeries and A&E departments.

We have asked our local MP, Chris Matheson, to write to the Health Secretary, Matt Hancock, requesting him to provide whatever funding is required both now and in the longer term to keep pharmacies open. The DHSC has talked about reducing the number of pharmacies by a third – some 3,000 closures. I hope you agree this would reduce access to essential patient services.

Your active support will be greatly appreciated to ensure people can continue to get walk-in access to professional healthcare advice and support both during and after the COVID-19 outbreak.

You can help by signing the online petition at ‘change.org/saveourpharmacies‘.

Michelle

Westminster Park Pharmacy