CPS’s November Council: The Future of Community Pharmacy

Published: 13/11/25

Community Pharmacy Scotland’s (CPS) November Council meeting brought Board and Council members together yesterday (12/11/25) to discuss the future of Community Pharmacy in Scotland. The agenda explored current and emerging policy priorities and how these will shape the future of the sector, with a particular focus on the CPS 2026 Manifesto.

---

Council members shared their perspectives on education and training, research, and future strategic direction and areas for ensuring that Pharmacy First continues to evolve to meet Scotland’s health needs. However, our central focus was the CPS Manifesto, which sets out our key priorities ahead of the 2026 Scottish Parliamentary elections. Members discussed how the manifesto provides both clarity and ambition for the future of community pharmacy in Scotland.

One Council member described it as a “great opportunity to develop community pharmacy services, with appropriate funding, and support our local communities to be healthier.” Another added, “The manifesto gives clarity to the areas where community pharmacy can support the health of Scotland, and it helps strengthen interactions with external stakeholders.”

Council members also highlighted how the manifesto aligns with the needs of patients and the direction of Scottish Government policy:

“Meeting patient needs is vital, especially as demand for health services is ever increasing and frustration grows with access to GPs and other NHS services.”
“I think the manifesto supports what both government and the people of Scotland want, treatment and prevention strategies delivered much closer to home.”
“If government would back some or all of the manifesto asks, community pharmacy could have a significant impact on Scottish health.”

These comments echo the central message of the CPS 2026 Manifesto: that community pharmacy is essential to building a healthier Scotland. With the right investment in infrastructure, education, and service development, pharmacy teams can play a greater role in preventing, detecting, and treating ill health, from diabetes and cardiovascular disease to weight-related issues and drug-related harm.

The Council discussions demonstrated a shared commitment to advancing these priorities and ensuring that community pharmacy remains at the heart of Scotland’s communities.

---