Pharmacy type
Community
Pharmacy context
COVID-19
Relevant standards
- 1.8 - Children and vulnerable adults are safeguarded
Why this is notable practice
The pharmacy is actively engaging in the UK SAYS NO MORE campaign run by Hestia, a national charity. By doing this it is providing vital support to people experiencing domestic abuse during the COVID-19 pandemic.
How the pharmacy did this
The pharmacy had signed up to the UK SAYS NO MORE campaign by offering a ‘Safe Place’ for victims of domestic abuse to access. To support the campaign the pharmacy team members had received training and the pharmacy was promoting access through media, posters and information leaflets. The pharmacy had a number of resources available in its consultation room to further support victims of domestic abuse. These included access to 24-hour National domestic abuse helpline, other telephone helplines and information on how to download smartphone applications to provide support to people.
Shortly after the campaign was launched a team member witnessed an event close to the pharmacy which had prompted the team member to intervene and offer support. The team member identified the person was potentially a victim of domestic abuse and offered use of the pharmacy’s consultation room as a safe space. The pharmacist spoke to the vulnerable person and gathered some details around the events which had occurred and listened to the person to assess how best to offer support. Team members ensured the vulnerable persons needs were met by running an errand for the person and providing something to eat and drink. And with the person's permission they contacted the police who were able to support the person further.
What difference this made to patients
People suffering domestic abuse can place their trust in the pharmacy team and feel reassured there is a safe space for them in the pharmacy. The pharmacy has a range of resources available for people to help them seek support.
Highlighted standards
We have identified the standards most likely and least likely to be met in inspections, and highlighted examples of notable practice for each of these standards; to help everyone learn from others and to support continuous improvement: