A pharmacy has announced it will close after 14 years, blaming increasing difficulties working with the NHS and concerns over staff safety.
Pharma Plus will shut Central Pharmacy and Clinic in Northdown Road in Cliftonville, Margate, on Monday, February 3, much to the disappointment of customers.
Central Pharmacy in Cliftonville, Margate will shut within weeks. Picture: Google
It will not be able to process NHS prescriptions beyond the end of this month.
The current owners took over in 2021 but say it is no longer viable to operate.
“The challenges we face have become insurmountable,” they said in an announcement to customers.
“Difficult negotiations with suppliers and the NHS, escalating costs, and increasing concerns about the safety of our staff have made it impossible to sustain our operations.”
The owners said the costs associated with providing extended-hour services for the NHS have made it harder to remain profitable and continue offering free services to the community. Cliftonville is one of the most deprived areas in the UK.
“This decision was not made lightly,” they said.
“While it is undeniably sad to see a business that has thrived for so many years come to an end, sustainable provision of pharmacy service remains [the] responsibility of the local NHS.”
They thanked their staff, customers and the “caring community that has embraced us”, before adding: “For us, this decision marks the end of a long journey and the beginning of a new chapter free from the constraints and fears that have weighed on us in recent years.”
Customers have expressed their dismay on social media.
One wrote: “This is really sad to hear. Always had great service here.”
Pharmacists have faced new challenges in recent years. Stock picture
Another said: “I’m so sorry for this. You’re all lovely people and while I know things have been difficult, you’re all super kind and considerate people, and you’ve served your community and should be proud.”
The decision to close comes as the industry faces challenges and changes.
In January 2024, the government launched the Pharmacy First Scheme, which enabled patients suffering from seven common illnesses to get treatment and prescription-only medicines from pharmacies without having to see their GP.
Out of 307 pharmacies in Kent, 304 signed up.
Firms are paid £15 per consultation and a lump sum if they meet targets – but pharmacists say these are becoming harder to meet.
It has coincided with a rise in anti-social and violent behaviour towards staff.
Many pharmacists have reported the extra NHS work means they can only make money through private treatment.