UCL academic to chair pharmacy commission ahead of significant industry changes

Dr Jane Dacre A new UK-wide Commission set up by the NHS, tasked with producing a 'blueprint for the purpose, role and functions' of future professional pharmacy leadership, will be co-chaired by Professor Dame Jane Dacre (UCL Medical School). The 'UK Commission on Pharmacy Professional Leadership' has been set up to listen to and provide guidance and support to the sector, ahead of several significant changes that will impact frontline pharmacists and pharmacy technicians. These changes include: New initial education and training standards for pharmacists, which mean they will be independent prescribers from day one of registration from 2026. The potential of legislative changes to increase the contributions of pharmacy technicians to patient care and service delivery. The Commission, co-chaired by Nigel Clarke, former chair of the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC), will engage with pharmacy professionals across the UK through webinars held in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. It will establish working groups to consider key areas of focus including: leadership, policy and professionalism; regulatory support; professional education and training; regional, country and international relations; and scope of practice of future pharmacy professionals. Launching the Commission, in a letter to registered pharmacy professionals, the co-chairs said: "Professional leadership has never been so important.