Return to practice / change in sector pharmacy professionals

HEIW Pharmacy have created a resource hub to support pharmacy professionals (pharmacists and pharmacy technicians) returning to practice and/or changing their sector of practice.

We understand professionals may need to complete some continuing professional development to be competent and feel confident in their roles, and to meet the General Pharmaceutical Council’s (GPhC) return to practice application requirements.

This resource has been developed to support pharmacy professionals to update their knowledge on significant changes within pharmacy practice in the UK and to identify and meet their personal learning needs. The resources provided and signposted to may provide opportunities for pharmacy professionals to gather evidence to support how they meet the GPhC professional standards. Further details on the GPhC requirements for returning to practice can be found via the website: Returning to the register | General Pharmaceutical Council (pharmacyregulation.org).

We have provided a ‘CORE’ resources section which is applicable for all professionals working in all healthcare sectors (Community, Hospital and Primary Care), which contains a self-assessment framework to enable professionals to ascertain core areas which they may require additional support. There are also some ‘SECTOR specific’ resources available. The resources listed and signposted to are comprehensive and not all will be applicable for each individual and are intended to be used as a reference source.

Please refer to the ‘Further Support’ section for details on how HEIW Pharmacy can provide further guidance and on supporting finding a suitable mentor.

It is important that professionals read all the appropriate local policies, including Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Patient Group Directions (PGDs), which link to the procedures and services to be undertaken. Many pharmacy contractors and health boards have locum or rotation information packs available, which may also be a valuable resource.

It is essential that professionals check with their employer organisation, that suitable indemnity insurance is in place, or whether personal arrangements are required. Professional judgement must be taken to ensure that work is resumed within the individual’s scope of competency.

At the time of production this information was accurate. We will endeavour to keep it up to date, however, please be aware that information and guidance’s can change frequently.

The return to practice resources hub is openly available, however registration through the HEIW Pharmacy website may be required to access certain learning resources which have been signposted.

Access to the Return to Practice - HEIW YTD Portal