A councillor has called on NHS leaders to address the shortage of pharmacies in Bracknell Forest, Berkshire, after new data revealed the area has one of the lowest pharmacy provisions in the country. Research by the National Pharmacy Association (NPA) found Bracknell Forest ranked fourth lowest nationally for the number of pharmacies per 100,000 residents.
Councillor Sophie Forster has urged the Frimley Integrated Care Board (ICB) to ensure adequate facilities in the borough. Ahead of a full council meeting on 27 November, she highlighted the strain on local services, noting that a 10% population increase since 2011 has coincided with pharmacy closures and reduced opening hours. Despite this, an ICB spokesperson stated that current pharmacy services in Bracknell meet existing requirements but acknowledged the challenging environment faced by health service providers nationwide.
The role of pharmacies is expanding under the government’s Pharmacy First scheme, which aims to ease pressure on GP services by encouraging people to seek advice and treatment at local chemists. However, years of underfunding have led to reduced operating hours and the closure of some pharmacies. Next year, around 8,000 pharmacies in the NPA are expected to take collective action to highlight these challenges.
The NPA also raised concerns about "pharmacy deserts," particularly in rural areas. Neighbouring Wokingham was ranked second lowest for pharmacy provision, with West Berkshire having the fewest pharmacies. NPA chief executive Paul Rees warned that continued closures pose a serious threat to medication access, urging action to prevent further strain on communities.
