PCC supports Pharmacists’ Defence Association campaign urging patience when visiting pharmacies

21st April 2020

West Yorkshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) has urged residents to be patient when visiting pharmacies as they work hard to cope with the additional demand due to Coronavirus outbreak.

PCC Mark Burns-Williamson is making this plea to communities across West Yorkshire after concerns of the safety and vulnerability of pharmaceutical workers across the country.

As a result, the Pharmacists’ Defence Association (PDA) has called for the support of Police and Crime Commissioners and police forces across England & Wales to help calm the behaviour experienced in some pharmacies during this period.

West Yorkshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Mark Burns-Williamson, said: “Pharmacy staff are key workers and along with other healthcare professionals are under real pressure during these unprecedented times. I know the vast majority of our communities are well aware and supportive, as demonstrated through the amazing responses to the ‘Clap for our Carers’ initiative. However, I would urge everyone to be patient and respect the staff in pharmacies who are working hard to support their communities and patients during this time. They are putting their own lives at risk, as well as their families to ensure communities have vital medical supplies.

“Understandably, tensions and anxiety can run high during this pandemic; however, we must all be tolerant and come together as a community to help support these frontline staff and our local Neighbourhood Policing Teams (NPTs) will be out and about to assist wherever required.”