New 24/7 health and wellbeing support service launched today.

We are aware that the Covid-19 pandemic has put extra pressure on the pharmacy sector at the frontline of the healthcare system. In response to this Pharmacy Forum NI has launched a new health and wellbeing support service, to make the following resources available to all pharmacy frontline workers, between April and September 2020.

  • 24/7 telephone helpline
  • Structured telephone/video counselling
  • Financial and legal guidance
  • Access to online support at Inspire Hub

Whether you are a pharmacy technician, dispenser, healthcare assistant, delivery driver or if you are providing any other type of pharmacy support role, you can avail of this service.
Support available is free, confidential and delivered by the independent workplace wellbeing provider, Inspire.

We would like to take this opportunity to remind Pharmacists and Pre-Registration Students that all of the above support, along with a range of other services, is currently available to you and your family (spouse/civil partner, children and dependants) through the Pharmacists’ Advice and Support Service (PASS) on an ongoing basis.

Why should I use this service?

The COVID-19 outbreak is a unique and unprecedented scenario for pharmacy workers, particularly as there has been no such crisis in our recent past. Strategies that have worked for you previously to manage stress or pressure might not be so effective during this time.

That’s where this support comes in.

Sometimes just talking to friends or family can help but at other times such as this, it may be better to talk to someone trained to listen who can offer support, guidance and a fresh outlook.

How can I access this service?

Week commencing 13 April 2020 a resource pack will arrive to every pharmacy in Northern Ireland with posters and leaflets to raise awareness of the 24/7 support service for you and your team members.

  • please place the poster prominently on a team notice board
  • hand out the leaflets provided
  • take a moment to discuss the new service with your team

Leaflet 24/7 Support Pharmacist / Pre-Reg (PASS)

Leaflet 24/7 Support Pharmacy Frontline workers

For more information and passwords for resources call the Pharmacy Forum and PASS Coordinator
T: 07951 04487