Ask Your Pharmacist Week is a national awareness campaign that shines a spotlight on the vital role pharmacists play in our healthcare system. Held every November in the UK, it encourages people to make better use of their local pharmacist – not just for prescriptions, but for advice, support, and everyday health concerns. It’s a reminder that pharmacists are accessible, knowledgeable professionals who can help us stay well and manage conditions without always needing a doctor’s appointment.
What is Ask Your Pharmacist Week?
Ask Your Pharmacist Week is an initiative led by the National Pharmacy Association (NPA) to raise public awareness of the support available in community pharmacies. Throughout the week, pharmacies, healthcare organizations, and media outlets share practical information about how pharmacists can assist with minor illnesses, medication management, vaccinations, and health screenings. It’s also a chance to highlight the broader contribution of pharmacy teams – especially during times of strain on GP and hospital services.
When is Ask Your Pharmacist Week?
Ask Your Pharmacist Week takes place annually in the first full week of November. In 2026, it will run from Monday, November 3 to Sunday, November 9. During this week, pharmacies may display educational materials, offer free advice sessions, run social media campaigns, or partner with local media to spread awareness. The NPA also shares themed resources with member pharmacies to help them engage their communities.
Why Ask Your Pharmacist Week Matters
Pharmacists are often the first port of call for everyday health issues – yet many people still don’t realise the full range of services they offer. At a time when GP surgeries and emergency rooms are under pressure, redirecting non-urgent cases to pharmacies helps everyone. From managing repeat prescriptions to giving expert guidance on side effects, pharmacists play a crucial role in keeping us safe, informed, and healthy. This week matters because it empowers people to use their pharmacist more proactively and confidently.
How to Get Involved in Ask Your Pharmacist Week
Whether you’re a healthcare provider, community leader, or patient, here are ways to take part:
- Visit your local pharmacy: Use the week as an opportunity to speak with your pharmacist about any ongoing concerns or medications.
- Promote awareness: Share information on social media using the campaign hashtags and tag your local pharmacy to boost visibility.
- Organize a pharmacy visit: Schools and community groups can arrange visits to learn how pharmacists support health education and wellbeing.
- Display resources: If you work in healthcare or a related field, download NPA posters and leaflets to put up in waiting areas or online newsletters.
- Ask questions: Encourage friends or family – especially older adults or those with chronic conditions – to use the opportunity to review their medications or clarify concerns.
History of Ask Your Pharmacist Week
Ask Your Pharmacist Week was launched by the National Pharmacy Association in the early 2000s. It was created in response to growing recognition that pharmacy services were underused and underpromoted. Over the years, the campaign has helped reposition pharmacists as key frontline healthcare professionals. It has evolved with the times – highlighting new services like flu vaccinations, emergency contraception, and NHS consultations for minor ailments.
Noteworthy Facts About Ask Your Pharmacist Week
- There are over 11,000 community pharmacies in the UK – many open evenings and weekends.
- More than 90% of the population lives within a 20-minute walk of a pharmacy.
- Pharmacists are trained to spot early signs of serious illness and refer patients to doctors when necessary.
- In 2024, NHS England reported over 1 million pharmacy consultations per week for minor health concerns.
- Most pharmacies now offer private consultation rooms to discuss sensitive health topics in confidence.
Hashtags
#AskYourPharmacist, #PharmacyWeek, #HealthcareAccess
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