This is yet another damaging attack on the institutions that hold our communities together.

Community pharmacies play a vital role in meeting health needs, and they take pressure off other parts of the local health and care service.  For example, they have a strong track record in delivering positive public health outcomes, like supporting good sexual health and reducing substance misuse; and they support independent living by helping people to understand the correct use and management of medicines, as well as providing health lifestyle advice and support for self-care.

A community pharmacy is also one of the core businesses that can make a difference between a viable high street and one that is failing commercially – sustaining communities, providing investment, employment and training.

Funding cuts will limit their ability to do all of this in the future. For example, cuts are likely to lead to pharmacies cutting staffing, cutting opening hours and reducing some of the services offered, such as free delivery of medicines.

The problem has been recognised by Green and Labour councillors at Brighton & Hove City Council, who jointly proposed a motion in October opposing the Government cuts.

On Friday I was inspired to hear more about the vital work that Ross Pharmacy does in providing health services in the community – and am more determined than ever to oppose this latest ill-judged and short-sighted move by the Government.

#lovemypharmacy