The RPS Assembly is the key decision-making body of RPS which is responsible for setting strategic direction, financial management and organisational governance and met on 17 July. 

The Assembly confirmed Professor Claire Anderson’s second year in office as President and elected Brendon Jiang as RPS Treasurer.

Commenting on the following discussion points at the Assembly’s July meeting, RPS President Professor Claire Anderson said:

UK Pharmacy Professional Leadership Advisory Board (UKPPLAB)

“Chair of the UKPPLAB, Sir Hugh Taylor, updated the Assembly on the activities of the Board’s working groups and answered questions from Assembly members, including how to influence the new government, include patient voices in the Board’s work, how the work of the devolved nations is being considered and the importance of research for the profession.     

“The collaborative ethos of the UKPPLAB is inspiring, working closely together we are focusing on strengthening clinical practice, supporting pharmacists and technicians to reach their potential and driving up standards of care to benefit patients and the public.

“Education, training and credentialling play crucial roles in supporting professionals, along with expanding scope of practice, to keep pace with rapid changes in healthcare and align more closely with regulators.

“Professional leadership is vital to support developments in the post-registration practice of pharmacy technicians and as well as the first cohort of newly qualified pharmacist prescribers from 2026. I look forward to working with colleagues on the UKPPLAB to drive forward these agendas.”

Constitution & Governance Review

“The constitutional and governance review conducted by Firetail, the organisation we appointed to carry out an independent examination of the structures, systems and processes that support organisational decision-making, accountability and strategic direction, is continuing. We hope to publish their recommendations soon and will engage extensively with our members, providing plenty of opportunities to get involved with shaping the future of pharmacy.”

International

“I’m very proud of our new strategy for international work, which reflects our commitment to international partnerships, sharing knowledge and best practice to ensure the global advancement of the pharmacy profession.

“We want to grow our collaborations with a range of international bodies including FIP and the Commonwealth Pharmacists’ Association, including RPS representation on committees, joint working on educational events and strengthening awareness of the impact of international work amongst our membership to promote the safe and effective use of medicines in the international arena.”

Pharmacist Support

“Our newly strengthened partnership with Pharmacist Support will help underpin the wellbeing and mental health of pharmacists. I was delighted that the charity’s CEO, Danielle Hunt, addressed Assembly to highlight their impact report, annual ACTnow campaign and how we are aligning plans to support the profession. Our partnership also opens up avenues for deeper engagement and joint initiatives to empower pharmacists and enhance their experience of the workplace.”

Find out more about the RPS Assembly.

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