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With a number of pharmacy organisations with few or no women on their elected boards, what might be stopping more women putting themselves forward was the subject of a panel discussion at the Pharmacy Show, chaired by Clare Ward, director of public affairs at the PDA.

More information about what is involved in being a board member of a national organisation could help, proposed Leyla Hannbeck, chief pharmacist at the National Pharmacy Association. Although the NPA currently has no women on its board, €It's a fair election; anyone can stand,€ she emphasised.

It is important to tell people that you want to get involved said Janice Perkins, superintendent pharmacist, at Well. €It's also about picking the right moment in your career,€ she said. €You need to take those opportunities to really make things happen.€

Surrey pharmacy owner and community pharmacist locality lead for Sutton CCG, Reena Barrai, said that underlying self-doubt and what still may be a greater share of practical responsibilities for home life and family can often be barriers. €Many women haven't got equality in home life,€ she suggested.

From the floor, Annette Kerr, chief executive of the Company Chemists' Association, said half of the 12-person CCA board are currently women.

Whether woman or man, we need to be looking at whoever is best for the job, commented Leyla Hannbeck, National Pharmacy Association. €If I can do the job, I'll go for the job.€

English National Board's Sandra Gidley agreed. €If you want something, go for it,€ she said.

Luvjit Kandula of Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland LPC advised: €Have a clear purpose and objective. Make the most of the opportunities you have in front of you.€ The more you get involved in, the more you improve your experience and confidence, she suggested.