EDM 2: Pharmacy provision in Glastonbury

That this House is concerned about the insufficient pharmacy provision in Glastonbury; believes that following the closure of two pharmacies last year the one remaining pharmacy cannot meet the demands of the town; is pleased that plans for another pharmacy to open in the town have been approved and welcomes its opening; yet is worried about the long term challenges facing pharmacies as the equivalent to 10 local pharmacies have closed down every week between January and April 2024; notes that real terms funding for community pharmacies has decreased by 40% over the last decade; further believes that a fairer and more sustainable long-term funding model for pharmacies is needed; supports the Pharmacy First approach to give patients more accessible routine services and ease the pressure on GPs; and believes qualified pharmacists should be given more prescribing rights and public health advisory services.