Sector charity Pharmacist Support has announced it is to start offering counselling sessions to pharmacists battling mental health issues. 

In a statement today to mark its 180th anniversary, the charity said that through its partnership with the Counselling and Family centre pharmacists, trainees and students who are living with poor mental health will be able to access six funded counselling sessions from April 23.

The partnership was made possible by a grant from the Covid-19 Healthcare Support Appeal (CHSA).

Pharmacist Support also announced forthcoming collaborative work with the Royal Pharmaceutical Society on mental wellbeing in the workplace, as well as the continuation of a partnership with the Pharmacists’ Defence Association whereby the PDA donates £1 to the charity for each of its members.

Pharmacist Support chief executive Danielle Hunt said: “We’ve come such a long way from the organisation we were 180 years ago and are proud of the way we have adapted and responded to the profession’s needs over this time.

“In continuing this responsive and proactive approach we’re absolutely delighted as part of these anniversary celebrations to share news of several key wellbeing partnership activities.

“As we shift our focus now to the future, it is our hope that these developments will build on our existing services, providing more tailored and emotional health support as we move into the new phase of our charitable journey.

“By working collaboratively and continuing to listen, we hope the charity will continue to provide an independent safe space for those in our pharmacy family to share their worries and access support for many years to come.”