| Good afternoon, I hope you are all well and staying safe. Yesterday I talked about the launch of our #shotinthearm campaign, launched to lobby the government to allow pharmacies to administer vaccine shots within the community. We don't think anyone should have to travel more than 10 minutes to get vaccinated, though the current government target is 10 miles. 10 miles is a long journey for someone if they don't have a car or easy access to public transport. Last night, in response to a question at the Downing Street press briefing on behalf of us and our sister papers, the Health Secretary said the Government is “absolutely” looking at what further role community pharmacies could play in the vaccine roll-out. He said: “The first 200 community pharmacies are coming on stream (for vaccinations) very shortly but I am sure there is more that community pharmacy could do.
“I am a huge fan of the role that community pharmacy plays, especially so close to the community - so often it is the part of the NHS that is most embedded in the community.”
Mr Hancock added that community pharmacists are likely to play “a particularly important role” in persuading hard-to-reach groups and those hesitant about vaccination to get a Covid-19 jab. So it looks like the government is on board but 200 UK-wide is simply not enough. Pharmacies sit at the heart of our high streets and they are ready and willing to help. Let them. Hope you have a lovely Tuesday, Regards, Nicola Thanks for reading. If you value what we do and are able to support us, a digital subscription is just £1 per month for the first two months. Try us today by clicking here | 
