The Prince of Wales congratulates community pharmacy teams for their efforts during the pandemic

Yesterday evening, His Royal Highness, The Prince of Wales paid tribute to the incredible efforts of community pharmacy teams throughout the COVID-19 pandemic during a special reception at St James’s Palace.

Over two hundred pharmacists, pharmacy staff and other health service representatives attended the reception, including PSNC’s CEO Janet Morrison and Vice Chair Bharat Patel. The event was held, in part, to mark the NPA’s recent centenary.

In his speech to attendees, The Prince of Wales praised “the dedication and professionalism of pharmacy staff” during the Covid-19 pandemic and said, “I very much hope that this evening’s event will help, a little bit, to highlight the marvellous work you do in your communities day in and day out.”

Credit: Ian Jones Photography

His Royal Highness continued:

“And, if I may also say so, it is truly inspiring to know that this gathering includes people from so many of the different backgrounds that make up the pharmacy workforce today.  Yours may be an ancient profession, but it certainly reflects modern Britain in all its splendid diversity.”

“At the same time, you are a very familiar fixture in the nation’s high streets and neighbourhoods – something that people have come to rely on and value tremendously over generations.  As well as providing prompt access to advice and treatment, of course the great thing is you are also a friendly and reassuring presence in our communities.  A place where science, as it were, meets society.  As I have said once before, pharmacies are about people and places, not just pills.”

When asked about the evening, Bharat Patel said:

“I am delighted to see this level of recognition for the work that community pharmacy teams do, and I hope the event raises awareness of these unsung heroes of community healthcare. It was an honour to meet His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales, who seems to appreciate how the pharmacy sector stepped up during the pandemic and is enthused by the growing portfolio of pharmacy services making them even more valuable assets.”