Role turnover is slow
The current financial climate and the rising retirement age in the UK are driving pharmacists to retain their roles for longer, sparking a reduction in the number of vacant positions. Posts in NHS organisations are increasingly retained by postgraduate students who view the positions as a safe haven in a period of instability. At the same time, there is reduced demand from the private sector as large multiples limit their intake of qualified pharmacists. Pharmacists previously working in locum roles have moved to full-time posts in an attempt to obtain greater stability.
Proposed workforce impact
- Pharmacists stay in their roles for longer.
- Opportunities for advancement in lower-grade roles are limited.
- Limited job availability affects trainee intakes.
Sources or references
Additional research questions
- To what extent does job availability drive uptake of pharmacist training?
Some of the information in this section is provided by stakeholders and expert groups, and does not necessarily represent the views of the CfWI.
