Trainee Pharmacists Get Set to ACTNow for Mental Health Awareness

From 20th to 24th May, Pharmacist Support will run its annual Trainee ACTNow Wellbeing Campaign. This initiative, aimed at trainees approaching the end of their training placements, offers essential support to help navigate the challenges of the upcoming summer GPhC assessment and the transition to becoming registered pharmacists.

“Navigating the period leading up to the GPhC assessment and the subsequent transition can be incredibly overwhelming for some trainees” remarked Danielle Hunt, Chief Executive of Pharmacist Support. “We understand the anxiety and pressure they may feel, not only in preparing for the assessment but also in stepping into their roles as registered pharmacists.

“Through the campaign we want to encourage open conversations and aim to build confidence among trainees as they embark on their pharmacy careers” said Hunt. “Last year, our campaign focused on sharing stories and providing resources to alleviate some of the worries trainees may experience. This year, we’re excited to continue providing support and tools to help trainees prioritise their wellbeing during this critical time.”

Throughout the campaign week, Pharmacist Support will offer a variety of resources and activities in collaboration with campaign partners Boots and Charity Partner, the PDA. These resources will cover topics such as managing anxious thoughts, preparing for the assessment, and maintaining healthy sleep habits. Additionally, a live workshop titled “Get Mentally Prepared for the Assessment” will be conducted in partnership with the PDA.

Claire Nevinson, Superintendent Pharmacist at Boots, expressed the company’s commitment to supporting the campaign:

Pharmacists are at the heart of delivering care to patients and customers in their communities and so it’s important that we at Boots look after their wellbeing and the wellbeing of the team that support them.
Claire Nevinson, Superintendent Pharmacist at Boots

“This is especially important for our trainee pharmacists as they take their final step and enter into the profession to play an important role as part of a wider healthcare team in community pharmacy.  We are delighted to partner with Pharmacist Support to get involved in its ACTNow campaign and I encourage all Trainee Pharmacists to explore and utilise the resources now available.”

Paul Day, Director of Membership & Communities at the Pharmacists’ Defence Association (PDA), emphasised the importance of trainee wellbeing:

The PDA is pleased to continue to support the ACTNow campaign. The intensity of learning while also working and caring for patients can present serious challenges for trainees and it is essential that their wellbeing is given the appropriate attention by the individual, and by those around them, such as their colleagues, manager and employer.
Paul Day, Director of Membership & Communities at the Pharmacists’ Defence Association (PDA)

Pharmacist Support is grateful for the support of its partners, which enables the charity to provide free and confidential services to thousands across the sector every year.

Trainees across Great Britain are encouraged to sign up for the campaign, allow time for wellbeing, consider the needs of others, and take action to prioritise mental health.

Sign up to the Trainee ACTNow Wellbeing Campaign