Pharmacy workforce plan: Progress update

Published 28 August 2025

We’re continuing to make strong progress against the actions set out in the Strategic Pharmacy Workforce Plan, which is helping to shape a more flexible, skilled and sustainable pharmacy workforce for Wales.

At a HEIW Board meeting earlier this year, an update was shared on the transformation work underway across pharmacy education and workforce development. This builds on the foundations laid over the past five years and reflects our commitment to supporting pharmacy professionals to deliver high-quality care in all settings.

Key developments include:

• Expansion of independent prescribing roles: Training capacity has increased, enabling more pharmacists to take on prescribing responsibilities across primary, community and hospital settings.
• Growth in education and training pathways: There has been a rise in both undergraduate placements and foundation programme places, supporting the development of early career pharmacists and pharmacy technicians.
• Multi-sector training models: These are helping to build a more integrated and adaptable workforce, with professionals gaining experience across different care settings.
• Improved collaboration: Stronger links between HEIW, NHS organisations and education providers are supporting more joined-up workforce planning and delivery.
• Focus on preventative care: The plan continues to support service transformation, with pharmacy teams playing a greater role in prevention and early intervention.

This update reflects the ongoing commitment to delivering the ambitions of the Pharmacy Workforce Plan and ensuring pharmacy professionals are supported to thrive and lead in a changing healthcare landscape.

We’re also excited to welcome our new Pharmacy Dean later this autumn.