Independent pharmacists are starting to prepare their businesses for possible cuts in funding, just weeks after an initial announcement by the Department of Health, says Numark.

The symbol group has also announced a toolkit to help its members raise local awareness of the planned cuts to pharmacy funding.

The kit includes information on making contact with both the media and MPs, with template press releases and letters included in the kit, as well as posters to display in store.

Numark will be sending letters to members to explain the situation, what is being asked of them and support they will receive.

Speaking about the cuts, managing director, John D’Arcy said: “There are still many unanswered questions raised by the pre-Christmas letter from the Department of Health and we need to see how the situation evolves. However, some of our members are keen to take action now as they fear the subsequent threat to their livelihood so, following discussions with contractors we are making these resources available now. This kit provides practical support and will help our members take action as well as prepare for the challenges ahead. Our Pharmacy Development Managers are being briefed this week and they will be discussing the issue with pharmacy owners on their regular visits."

“We are writing to the Minister and maintaining an open dialogue with pharmacy representative bodies in order to ensure a co-ordinated response to the cuts from across the sector. However, our members are more vulnerable to the drop in remuneration than their multiple competitors and they are looking to Numark to provide assistance and leadership at this time.”

Numark members and independent pharmacists in general are also being encouraged to get their patients to sign the online petition started by Paul Mason.