By Claudia Watson

A new network of Pharmacy First ambassadors has been launched by NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly and NHS Devon to “help spread the message” of the service.

NHS Devon said this week that the ambassadors reflect the diversity of the areas they represent, with those involved including fishermen, pensioners, members of the LGBTQ+ community and parents of young children.

Their role is to share “their own voices and experiences” and encourage their communities to use Pharmacy First for common health concerns, it added.

Read more: One in five people used a pharmacy for advice in last year

There are nearly 300 community pharmacies across Cornwall, the Isles of Scilly and Devon, with nearly all offering Pharmacy First services.

The campaign also highlights community pharmacies’ role in treating seasonal health problems, such as hayfever, sunburn and insect bites.

“Invaluable”

Nigel Taylor, a local fisherman and Pharmacy First ambassador, helped to launch the campaign at Stithians Show on July 13 and said he is “proud to be a Pharmacy First Ambassador”.

“Busy days at sea can mean making time to see my own GP is difficult, so knowing I can visit my local pharmacist for help with common conditions is invaluable,” he added.

NHS Cornwall clinical lead pharmacist Amanda Fidelis, who also helped to launch the campaign, said community pharmacists are “vital” in keeping people healthy over the summer.

Read more: Pharmacists shape almost two-thirds of patients’ health decisions

“As highly accessible healthcare professionals, we can provide expert advice and treatment for a range of common conditions through the Pharmacy First service,” she said.

“By making use of Pharmacy First, patients can access timely support without needing to wait for a GP appointment, helping them enjoy a healthier and safer summer.”

And NHS Cornwall chief place and transformation officer Dr Chris Reid said the scheme helped health practitioners to “connect with communities in a more meaningful way”.

Read more: Make community pharmacy a ‘core self-care partner’, urges PAGB

“By working with people who understand local lives, from our coastal and rural industries to families and community groups, we can build greater confidence in choosing the right care,” he said.

It comes after data obtained by C+D revealed that GP referrals to Pharmacy First resulting in consultations increased by 2.3% in the last year.

And it follows the government announcing as part of the 2026/67 pharmacy contract that a nationally commissioned independent prescribing service will be funded by the NHS as “an extension” of Pharmacy First and the pharmacy contraception service.