Central Pharmacy in Cliftonville has announced the termination of its NHS pharmacy contract and closure of the service.
The pharmacy and clinic on Northdown Road says the challenges faced from escalating costs, supply issues and staff safety issues are now “insurmountable.”
The pharmacy has operated for 14 years although in recent years there has been a change of management.
In a statement on social media, it says: “After 14 years of dedicated service to our community, it is with a heavy heart that we announce the closure of our pharmacy business.
“Over the years, we have been fortunate to witness immense success and establish a loyal customer base. However, despite our best efforts, we have reached a point where continuing to operate is no longer viable.
“The challenges we face have become insurmountable. Difficult negotiations with suppliers and the NHS, escalating costs, and increasing concerns about the safety of our staff have made it impossible to sustain our operations.
“Furthermore, the costs associated with providing extended hour services for the NHS have significantly impacted our ability to remain profitable and continue offering free services to the community.
“This decision was not made lightly. It comes after much reflection and careful consideration of what is best for our staff, customers, and ourselves. While it is undeniably sad to see a business that has thrived for so many years come to an end. Sustainable provision of pharmacy service remains responsibility of the local NHS.
“We want to take this opportunity to express our heartfelt gratitude to our dedicated staff, whose hard work and commitment have been the backbone of our success. To our loyal customers, thank you for your trust and support over the years. And to the caring community that has embraced us, your kindness and encouragement have meant the world to us.
“As we close this chapter, we encourage everyone to reflect on their own paths forward. For us, this decision marks the end of a long journey and the beginning of a new chapter free from the constraints and fears that have weighed on us in recent years.”
Central Pharmacy says all NHS prescriptions received until 31st January 2025 can be collected on February 1-3 from the pharmacy.
Contact can be made via email [email protected] or by leaving a message on 01843 210610.
The closest pharmacy is Northdown Pharmacy on the corner of Cornwall Gardens and Northdown Road.
NHS pharmacy contracts in Kent work within the NHS Community Pharmacy Contractual Framework (CPCF), which is a five-year deal between the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC), NHS England, and the Pharmaceutical Services Negotiating Committee (PSNC).
Community pharmacies are paid per activity for core services, such as dispensing prescriptions. They can also receive payment for advanced services they perform.
All pharmacy contractors must offer essential services and can choose to provide advanced services if they meet the requirements.
Central Pharmacy and Community Pharmacy Kent have been contacted for further details.
Sad but NHS being wrecked by private suppliers and contractors. Until the drugs suppliers are bought into public ownership we will keep seeing chemists and other services closing.
i wonder where all the drug addicts will go to get thier ” medication ” now ?
Yep, all those that congregate outside the church will have to put a bit of effort in , a bonus though will be areduction in the absurdly dangerous parking and manoeuvring performed by those using the pharmacy. Every cloud……
The article says Northdown Pharmacy.
Continued lack of contract negotiations are pushing pharmacies over the edge! They have been out of contract with the NHS since April 2024 and two governments have failed to engage to rectify this situation. This follows on from several years of chronic underfunding. The increase in national insurance in April may well be the last straw that breaks the camel’s back.
Will it become yet another barber shop? as if there aren’t enough already along there. Looks like a new one opening opposite the old Boots chemist shop too.
So, only chemist left will be the one on corner of Cornwall Gardens.
Its all part of the UK’s descent into 3rd world status see my earlier comment re bed bugs!
Been unhappy with them as of late, prescriptions never ready, long waits etc, whilst problem customers do exist, just sometimes they are reactions to problem retailers.