How long have you been a Community Pharmacist and what inspired you to become one?

I have been a community pharmacist for almost 25 years now. My inspiration stemmed from when I was 12. I used to accompany my brother at the pharmacy where he worked, just for fun. Later I had a Saturday job when he bought his own pharmacy. I saw the job satisfaction he had helping patients with their daily health issues. Also the great relationships he developed with patients and doctors. I witnessed the positive feedback he received from both patients and healthcare professionals for his work. I was impressed with the level of detail he practised with and felt it was a profession to be proud of.

How much medical training does a Pharmacist receive?

A lot of people are surprised to find out that every pharmacist trains for five years in the use of medicines before they qualify and is also trained in managing minor illnesses and providing health and wellbeing advice to help people stay well.

What sort of problems can Pharmacists help with?

Community Pharmacists can help with a range of issues:

• We can provide clinical advice to people on the treatment of minor health concerns such as coughs, colds, sore throats, tummy troubles and aches and pains that don’t require a GP appointment.

• We check prescriptions for safety, appropriateness, and ensure people take their medicines safely whilst answering questions and providing support to patients with their medicines.

• We also provide vaccinations, such as flu vaccinations.

By following the expert advice of community pharmacists, you can help the NHS help you stay well; prevent an illness getting worse; take the best course of action; and get well again sooner.

Can someone see a Pharmacist without an appointment?

Yes, community pharmacists offer a convenient, quick way to obtain clinical advice on minor health concerns, and can consult with patients in the pharmacy’s private consultation room with no need to pre-book an appointment. Most people live within easy reach of a pharmacy and many offer extended opening hours in the evenings and at the weekends.

Do all pharmacies have private consultation rooms?

Over 90% of pharmacies across the country have a consultation room where you can request to talk to a member of the pharmacy team in private.

What if the health concern becomes more serious?

If symptoms suggest it’s something more serious, pharmacists have the right clinical training to make sure you get the help you need immediately and can refer patients to a GP or A&E where necessary.

Don’t wait for minor health concerns to get worse – speak to your local pharmacy team to get advice right there and then.

Help us, help you, before it gets worse.

Visit nhs.uk/pharmacyadvice for more information.

There are a wide range of exciting and rewarding job opportunities available in the NHS across England. You can make a difference by working for the NHS and being part of a team that keeps the systems running to help keep every patient well.

We speak to people working for the NHS about their roles and what they enjoy most about their jobs.

Rakesh Mistry, Customer Service Analyst, NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT)

Rakesh provides IT support for all staff in the NHSBT. His role involves balancing priorities and resources to ensure the best possible outcome for each person, and the NHSBT.

“I enjoy working face to face and remotely with NHSBT staff, understanding their immediate and upcoming IT requirements and issues, and providing advice and support on the most appropriate solutions.

“My role is technical, but I also get to use my expertise to participate and chair expert groups, weekly team call reviews and project meetings.

“It can be a challenge to keep staff happy with their use of IT equipment so that they carry out their own jobs effectively, but I know it is for a good purpose – saving lives.”

Thalia Remy, Employee Relations Administrator at Barts Health NHS Trust

Thalia’s role allows her to get involved in a range of Human Resources (HR) activity including facilitating the Staff Partnership Forum, co-ordinating the job evaluation process and staff mediations across Barts Health NHS Trust.

“The thing I love most about my job is the variety of work I get involved in. I really enjoy being part of successful schemes such as the Staff Partnership Forum, where management and Trades Unions work together to find solutions for staff pensions. The concerns about staff welfare is of paramount importance and I feel privileged to play a part in this.”

Noreen Qureshi, Medical HR Assistant, Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust in Prestwich

Noreen assists with the day-to-day operations of Human Resources (HR) providing clerical and administrative support to the HR Coordinator.

“I think the best thing about my job is knowing that even though we’re not on the front line physically saving lives, our contribution has a positive impact on the health and wellbeing of so many people and that is satisfying to know.

“I get to speak to a range of clinical and non-clinical staff doing great work and I also get to meet the next generation of practitioners coming through and support them on their journey.”

“I feel it is important to be in a job that makes you happy and offers you opportunities to progress.”

If you’re interested in finding out what opportunities are available Search NHS support and IT jobs.

In a recent survey 9 out of 10 women said they would take a test that could help prevent cancer, however research shows that 1 in 4 women do not attend their cervical screening – a test that could stop cancer before it starts. We also know that Asian women are even less likely to attend.  So why is attendance so low? Priyanka shares her story:

Priyanka Abbi, 33 shares “I had my first screening two years ago. It was over in less than five minutes and wasn’t as uncomfortable as I imagined it would be. The results showed abnormal cells and after further investigations it revealed I had cervical cancer which left me in shock at the time. I wish I had gone for my screening test  when I received the invitation. I kept putting it off as I found it difficult to find the time to go.

“I’ve been successfully treated now and would urge all women – especially Asian women, as I know talking about private body parts within our culture can be a taboo – please, please don’t ignore your cervical screening invite. We should be thankful that this screening programme is available to us – who knows how many of our grandmothers died from cervical cancer because they did not have access to a  national screening programme like we have now.”

Chhaya, 42 said “I had an abnormal result after I had been for my cervical screening, however I was successfully treated. I’m so glad I had the test. Since then, I religiously book my appointment when I receive my invitation and just tell myself that even if it is uncomfortable, that five minutes of discomfort could save my life. I’m pleased this campaign is raising awareness of the importance of cervical screening and I hope more Asian women will be encouraged to book an appointment if they missed their last screening test without delay.”

Jas Dosanjh, 45 said “As soon as I get my invitation letter, I make an appointment and go straight away. My last screening was fine but 15 years ago, I had an abnormal result from my test. I had treatment and was closely monitored for a while, then I was given the all clear. I then returned to the regular programme where I was invited every 3 years.

Lakshmi Jesani, 37 said “I always go for my screenings even though I get nervous about test on the day. Most tests are done by a female nurse, but I usually ask for a female nurse because you can, just to put my mind at rest. The nurses I have seen are very good at putting me at ease so that I don’t feel embarrassed and they have given me tips to make the test more comfortable. My last test I asked for for a smaller speculum which was more comfortable and the test was over in minutes”

.”

Priyanka concludes “I am supporting the ‘Cervical Screening Saves Lives’ campaign and I hope that all Asian women will join me in ensuring we are  protecting ourselves  and our loved ones against cervical cancer, by responding to our cervical screening invitation letters. Make sure you encourage your mothers, daughters, sisters, aunties and friends to do the same. So, if your test is due or if you’ve missed your last screening, book an appointment at your GP practice today.”

For further information about cervical screening, search ‘NHS Cervical Screening’

We speak to Asian nurses who share their experience of being a nurse in the NHS, the challenges they faced regarding their career choice and how attitudes are changing with increased understanding of nursing within South Asian communities.

Farina Saheed is a mental health nurse from Leeds. She said “I first thought about a career in nursing when I did a counselling course. I realised how much I enjoyed giving back and helping others so I decided to leave my job in banking to pursue a nursing career.”

“My mum was really supportive of my decision but initially my dad wasn’t so happy about me making the change from banking to nursing.”

“In Asian families, parents want their children to be doctors not a nurse. Nurses are seen as being inferior but what people don’t understand is that nurses are the backbone of the NHS and we do a range intellectually challenging work including performance of some medical procedures, clinical research and education and treatment plans for patients. Attitudes are changing within the Asian community but there’s still more work to be done so people seen nursing as a good career option for their children.”

“I work with adults with mental health problems in hospital as well as in the community doing mental health reviews and helping patients develop coping skills.

I get to know my patients really well while supporting them on their road to recovery.”

“Coming from an Asian background helps me in my role especially when working with older Asian patients. I understand where they are coming from and can tailor the advice to meet their cultural needs.”

“I would definitely encourage young people or career changers like me to consider nursing as a career option. South Asians are still a minority and it would be great if we had better representation especially in mental health.”

“I really enjoy my role and wouldn’t change it for the world!”

Mariyha Iqbal qualified as is a nurse 6 months ago and works at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham.

She said “I initially worked as a healthcare assistant on the respiratory ward at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital. Whilst working as a healthcare assistant I developed a real interest and passion for nursing, so I decided to apply to university to study nursing.”

“I was fortunate enough to be offered a job where I did my second-year placement once I had completed my degree.”

Mariyha feels very lucky to have chosen this path as it has led her to a career that she finds extremely fulfilling and rewarding.

At first her family weren’t supportive of her decision to be a nurse; “I had to battle with the stigma of being a nurse. My family were really against it, but now they have seen it through my eyes, realising that I am actually making a difference, saving lives so they are very supportive now.”

“I love the diversity of my role, some days I feel like a pharmacist or a counsellor, other days I feel like someone’s brother or sister. I can’t think of another job that offers the versatile opportunities you get in nursing – the diverse range of people people you meet and although the environment can be challenging, it brings out the best in you.”

“The beauty of nursing is that it keeps you mentally stimulated. You are consistently challenged and there is always something exciting to do, whether its carrying out procedures, caring for patients or just putting a smile on someone’s face who may be feeling vulnerable.”

“You really become a patient’s family and everything that they need in that moment. You get to form close relationships with both your patients and other staff members which gives nursing such a sense of community.”

Nurses have the opportunity to specialise in a broad range of roles across all areas of the NHS, including: learning disabilities, mental health, and primary care to name a few. If you’re interested in a career in nursing search nursing careers.

NHS 111 call handler, Ahreni Athessan explains how NHS 111 works and how her job has helped her realise her passion for helping others. 

What is NHS 111?

NHS 111 is much more than a helpline – if you’re worried about an urgent medical concern, you can call 111 to speak to fully trained advisors available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, who can put you straight through to relevant healthcare professionals, including nurses, emergency dentists, or GPs depending on the situation.

What happens when you receive a call?

We ask a series of questions to help us assess the condition of the caller or the individual they are calling on behalf of to ensure they are directed to the most appropriate healthcare professional or service.

The questions we ask also help us identify how urgent the call is and then we advise on the best course of action.

What training do you undergo to become an adviser?

We undergo five weeks of intense training which includes class room training, written tests as well as on the job training that involves listening in to calls to understand the process followed by a week of taking calls with the support of a coach.

We don’t get signed off to take calls on our own until we have passed all the safety checks – the safety of your call is key for all call handlers, especially new starters.

What medical support do you receive?

There are a lot of healthcare professionals present whilst we’re taking calls so if I have any concerns I can alert a healthcare professional to come and help me with the call. Over time you also get used to identifying potential situations of concern and it is reassuring for me to know that help is always at hand and that I can ask for a second opinion from healthcare professionals.

What is the role of the call handler?

Other than take calls and advise on the best course of action, we can also arrange face-to-face appointments, and if you are assessed as needing an ambulance, we can organise one to be sent directly.

Whatever the need is, we will ensure that you get the right care, from the right person, as quickly as possible.

What skills do you need to be a call handler?

Empathy is key, appreciating how people may be feeling when they have a medical concern. Communication is also important – the ability to listen, analyse and provide the correct information. Working over the phone requires a completely different skill to dealing with people face-to-face, we need to be able to pick up on any concerns and be alert for any warning signs, for example if someone is suicidal, having a stroke or has mental health issues.

We are also trained to direct a third party to give Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) over the phone which requires good communication skills.

Can you tell me about the NHS 111 confidential interpreter service?

The interpreter service is fantastic, sometimes for a call handler it can be challenging getting to the bottom of the problem if the caller is not fluent in English. We can access a language line to help interpret the caller so it becomes a three-way call. The interpreter service is available in many languages. Callers simply mention the language they wish to use when the NHS 111 adviser answers the call.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I enjoy being able to help people on a daily basis and get them the right outcome, I’ve always wanted to work in healthcare but didn’t want to be so hands on so this role is perfect for me. I also love the variety of my job, every day is different, every call is different, every patient is different.

I think the NHS 111 is a much-needed service and more people need to be aware of it so, if you think you need urgent non-life-threatening medical help, call NHS 111.

Visit nhs.uk/111 for more information

NHS  111  is  much more  than  a  helpline. They  were  able  to  speak  to  fully  trained  advisors who  are  accessible 24 hours  a  day,  7  days  a  week  and put

straight  through  to  relevant  healthcare  professionals, depending  on  their  situation.

Namrata said  “I’ve  used NHS  111  numerous  times  and have  always  had  a  positive  experience. Most  recently  I  called when  my  son was  feeling  unwell  with  a  stomach  ache.  I  spoke  to  a  call handler  who  asked  a  few  questions  about  my  son’s  symptoms  and  gave  me some  advice on

how  to treat  it.  I  was  also  advised  to call  back  if  my  son’s  condition  didn’t  improve  which  was very  reassuring as  the  symptoms  persisted.  When  I  called  back  they

arranged a  call-back  with an  out  of  hours  GP.  The GP  called  me  10  mins  later  and  arranged  an  appointment. All  this happened  without me  needing  to  leave  my  home.”

Yatri used  NHS  111  for  the  first  time earlier this  year and  has  now  used  the  service  a  few times  since.  She  said  “The  first  time  I  called  111  I  didn’t  really  know  what  to  expect  but  I was surprised  at  how  quickly  the  call  handler  was  able  to arrange  an  appointment at Northwick Park  Hospital at  around  2am,  after  my  daughter  who  was  only  4  months  at  the  time  had  been vomiting 6  times  within  4  hours.  She  was  successfully  treated  which  was  a  huge  relief.”

The  second  time  I  called was when  my  daughter  had really  bad  nappy  rash.  This  time  the  call handler  arranged  for  a  midwife  to  call  me back.  She  called  within  10  mins  and  gave  me  advice which  helped  ease  the  rash. Because  the  service  is  so  good,  I  now  call  111  for  all  urgent  medical  concerns not  just  for  my daughter  but  other  family  members  too.  It’s such  an  efficient  service that  can  really  help  save

NHS  resources  if  people  called  111  for  urgent  non -life  threatening  medical  help  instead  of rushing  to  A&E.”

Bharti  arrived  in  the  UK  a  year  ago  and has  used  the  NHS  111  service  for  both  her  daughters aged  7  weeks  and  4  years  old  at  least  three  times. She  said “The  first  time  we  called  111  was for  my 4 year old daughter  who  was  having  urinary  problems.

We  explained  the  symptoms  to the  call  handler who  then arranged an  appointment  at  an  out  of  hours  clinic at  a local hospital with because  it  was late and  our GP  surgery

was  closed.  She  was  seen  by  a  doctor  who  ran some  tests  and  successfully  treated  her  for  a  urinary  infection.”

“I’m  really  thankful  for  NHS  111,  it’s  a  brilliant  service.  The  call  handlers  are  very  calm  and patient  even  when  I’ve  been  panicking,  especially

when  my  new  born  baby  was  unwell.”

If  you  think  you  need  urgent  non life – threatening  medical  help,  call  NHS  111.  ‘Help  Us  Help You’  know  what  to  do.  Visit nhs.uk/111 for more  information.