Pharmacists highlighted for key role in mental health support at the Senedd
Published: 26 November 2024
This news story was published when the organisation was the Royal Pharmaceutical Society.
The Royal Pharmaceutical Society in Wales recently showcased the important role pharmacists play in mental health care and support during a multi-professional briefing at the Welsh Parliament, Senedd.
The event was co-hosted by members of the Royal College Mental Health Expert Advisory Group Wales, a collaborative that unites royal colleges and professional organisations to discuss mental health services and provide expert advice to the Welsh Government, NHS Wales and other stakeholders.
Joining the RPS Wales team at the Senedd was Emily Laing, Principal Pharmacist for Mental Health at Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board. Key messages were shared with politicians, emphasising the significant impact pharmacists have on mental health care. Some of our key messages included:
- Expertise in medicines: Pharmacists’ specialist knowledge ensures optimal medication regimens and avoids harmful polypharmacy for patients with mental health conditions, whether in hospitals or the community
- Workforce planning: Consistent workforce planning across Wales is essential to ensure every mental health multidisciplinary team includes a specialist pharmacist
- Prevention and early support: Pharmacists across all sectors play a vital role in prevention efforts, helping to identify and support individuals showing early signs of mental health decline.
Commenting on the event, Elen Jones, director of RPS Wales, stated:
“RPS Wales is delighted to represent the profession on the Royal College Mental Health Expert Advisory Group and collaborate with colleagues across professions to drive positive changes for mental healthcare.
“I’m particularly grateful to Emily for her invaluable expertise at the event. She did a great job in bringing to life how pharmacists’ skills have a tangible impact on patients’ quality of life.
“At RPS Wales, we look forward to continuing our active involvement with the Royal College Mental Health Expert Advisory Group, ensuring the crucial role of pharmacists is recognised and continues to develop within mental health service provision.”
Emily Laing, principal pharmacist for mental health at Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board, said: “It was great to be able to share my experience and explain in detail to the elected members the value our skills as pharmacists bring to our patients and to mental health multidisciplinary teams. Thanks to RPS for the opportunity.”
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