“Do not take any unnecessary risks,” a local pharmaceutical committee in an area that has seen riots in recent days has urged contractors.  

Community Pharmacy North East Central, which represents a region including the city of Sunderland, which saw violent disorder over the weekend, told contractors today (August 6) that there is an ongoing “dynamic situation” and that it is “advisable for pharmacies to review the content of their business and continuity plan and ensure that all staff are familiar with the content”.

“The main message must be clear: Do not take any unnecessary risks,” the LPC urged. 

In a message to contractors across the country, Community Pharmacy England advised: “If your pharmacy is in an area which is being affected by protests, follow any guidance being provided by the police or local government to protect yourself, staff, patients and premises. 

“Pharmacies may have to temporarily close if that is advised by police.” 

Pharmacy bodies have joined voices in condemning the violent unrest seen in towns and cities across the UK over the last week, with asylum seeker facilities and Muslim communities among those most targeted. 

A joint statement from organisations including the General Pharmaceutical Council, Royal Pharmaceutical Society and Company Chemists’ Association said: “We are shocked and saddened by the violent public disorder events in recent days. 

“We acknowledge how all sectors of the pharmacy profession may be impacted and recognise the challenges that this level of overt aggression can have on people’s ability or willingness to live their daily lives. 

“The pharmacy workforce deserves peace and safety, not fear and harm. We stand united in having zero tolerance of racism towards our colleagues or the public in whatever form it takes.”

The Pharmacists’ Defence Association urged its members to raise any concerns about their wellbeing with their employer, adding that pharmacy teams “need to be able to continue to serve the community without staff fearing for their wellbeing, or patients worrying about attending the pharmacy when collecting essential medicines or to access services”. 

National Pharmacy Association chief executive Paul Rees said he was “appalled by the scenes of violence and intimidation” in recent days.

“We are immensely proud of the diversity of pharmacy contractors and their teams and stand shoulder to shoulder with them at this time of national crisis,” Mr Rees said.