Royal College of Pharmacy in England
We support, promote and lead the pharmacy profession across all sectors of pharmacy in England.
The Royal College of Pharmacy is a GB-wide organisation, but there are significant differences in policy in England, Scotland and Wales. That’s why England has its own National Pharmacy Advisory Council and RCPharm England team: to ensure we understand and support all our members and the wider profession in England.
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Contact your RCPharm Regional Ambassador.
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RPS announces appointment of inaugural Chair of the Trustee Board to steer the future royal college charity
Joe Irvin OBE has been appointed the first Chair of the future Royal College of Pharmacy’s Trustee Board, bringing extensive voluntary‑sector leadership experience to help guide the new royal college through its founding period.
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Professor Cathy McKenzie appointed to UK’s first full professorial role in intensive care pharmacy
This news story was published when the organisation was the Royal Pharmaceutical Society. The Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS) congratulates Professor Cathy McKenzie on her appointment as Professor of Intensive Care Pharmacy at the University of Southampton — the first role of its kind in the UK. Professor McKenzie also holds the position of Honorary Consultant Pharmacist in Critical Care at University Hospital Southampton (UHS), where she leads research focused on improving pharmacotherapy for critically ill patients. She is a long-standing member of the RPS Science and Research Committee and has contributed extensively to the Society’s work in advancing pharmaceutical science. Commenting on her appointment, Professor McKenzie, said: “I would like to thank the Royal Pharmaceutical Society for their ongoing support throughout my career. I look forward to continuing to work with the Society and supporting its transition into the Royal College of Pharmacy, to promote and encourage research among pharmacy professionals for the benefit of our patients and the wider public.” Professor Claire Anderson, RPS President, said: “I’d like to offer my warmest congratulations to Professor McKenzie on her appointment. This highlights the increasing research and clinical leadership of pharmacists within critical care. Professor McKenzie’s work demonstrates the significant impact pharmacy can have on patient care and the advancement of the profession through research and collaboration.” Read more RCPharm news stories
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Use of paracetamol during pregnancy
This was published when the organisation was the Royal Pharmaceutical Society. Following recent comments from the Trump administration suggesting a link between paracetamol use during pregnancy and autism, president of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society, Professor Claire Anderson, said: “Paracetamol has been used safely by millions of people for decades, including during pregnancy, when taken as directed. It is the first-line choice for pain management and fever control in a variety of patients, including pregnant women, children and the elderly. “A large study* conducted in 2024 found no evidence of a link between paracetamol use in pregnancy and an increased risk of autism in children. This research, which followed over 2.4 million children, provides reassurance for expectant parents that paracetamol remains a safe option for managing pain or fever during pregnancy when used as recommended. “As always, anyone with concerns about their medicines should speak to a pharmacist or other trusted healthcare professional to ensure they are getting sound advice from a trusted source.” *The study referred to is in JAMA Read the original letter to doctors from the US Food and Drug Administration on paracetamol and autism. RPS commentary was quoted in over 550 regional, national and international news outlets as part of an effort by many organisations to correct misinformation about the use of paracetamol during pregnancy and autism.
Our work in England
Our vision for England
Our vision for the role of and value of pharmacists and pharmacy teams.
Pharmacy practice
Working with NHS England and APTUK on inclusive pharmacy practice.
Future of pharmacy
The NHS in England is changing. Find out what this means for pharmacy.
How we work in England
National Pharmacy Advisory Council
Meet the elected council for England and find out how it works.
The Royal College of Pharmacy England team
Supporting members and leading pharmacy in England.
Our policy and advocacy work
Find out more about the College’s policy and advocacy work.