Numark has launched a toolkit to help raise local awareness of the planned cuts to pharmacy funding.

The kit includes information on making contact with both the media and MPs and template letters and press releases. Numark members are also being encouraged to get their patients to sign the online petition instigated by Paul Mason.

Managing director John D’Arcy said: “There are still many unanswered questions raised by the pre-Christmas letter from the Department of Health and we need to see how the situation evolves. However, some of our members are keen to take action now as they fear the subsequent threat to their livelihood so, following discussions with contractors we are making these resources available now.

"This kit provides practical support and will help our members take action as well as prepare for the challenges ahead. Our pharmacy development managers are being briefed this week and they will be discussing the issue with pharmacy owners on their regular visits.

“We are writing to the Minister and maintaining an open dialogue with pharmacy representative bodies in order to ensure a coordinated response to the cuts from across the sector. However, our members are more vulnerable to the drop in remuneration than their multiple competitors and they are looking to Numark to provide assistance and leadership at this time.”