Superdrug has today said it will increase the salaries of its newly qualified pharmacists to £50,000 and revealed it is recruiting for 200 roles across England.

The pharmacy chain said the pay rise will see its pharmacists “receive the strongest renumeration package on the high street today” and it insisted it would introduce “a new financial wellbeing package” and extra “mental health support for managers” to combat the cost-of-living crisis and work-based pressures.

In an attempt to bolster its operational structure, Superdrug has also created a new role – pharmacy team leader – in some of its branches. Those individuals, it said, will be dispenser-trained and provide “a clear line of accountability for day-to-day dispensary activity including adhering to legal and clinical frameworks whilst supporting, coaching and developing a high-performing pharmacy team.”

“The role also allows Superdrug to offer a clear line of progression for talented pharmacy dispensers and technicians who want to do more in their career and recognises the valuable contribution pharmacy dispensers and technicians play in community pharmacy,” Superdrug said.

The chain has appointed two new heads of pharmacy operations. Craig Watt, who was previously area manager, will be responsible for the operation of Superdrug’s central distribution hub serving its e-pharmacy and Online Dr team.

Amit Vassa, who was senior healthcare services manager, is responsible for “improving the operating processes for Superdrug pharmacies.” Superdrug said it has 155 pharmacists, “with an average length of service of seven years.”