The changes will give pharmacies greater flexibility in how they deploy their staff, freeing up pharmacist time to deliver more clinical services and to help advise patients on prevention, as well as sickness as part of the government's Plan for Change, while ensuring that pharmacists and pharmacy technicians can work to the top of their profession.

The draft legislation follows extensive consultation with pharmacy professionals and stakeholders. It is expected to come into effect by the end of 2025 and the bulk of the measures will have a one-year transition period to allow for the development of professional standards and guidance.

Minister Stephen Kinnock said: ‘Pharmacists will be able to spend more time providing clinical care, while qualified pharmacy technicians can take greater responsibility for routine tasks. This will improve patient experience and help avoid delays in accessing medicines when the pharmacist is not available.

‘These are simple, common-sense changes that will help pharmacies run better, saving staff and patient time.'

The DHSC says the changes, part of the immediate work to start delivering the 10-Year Health Plan, have been welcomed by the Royal Pharmaceutical Society, the Association of Pharmacy Technicians UK and the General Pharmaceutical Council.