Health Minister urges public to 'Ask your Pharmacist' this winter

Date published: 13 November 2026

During a visit to Pond Park Pharmacy, the Minister met with staff and witnessed firsthand the excellent work they are doing to support the local community.

Community Pharmacies play a vital role in delivering health and social care (HSC) services across Northern Ireland. They are one of the most accessible elements of the health service and make a significant contribution to managing winter demand.

Speaking at the visit, Minister Butler said: “Community Pharmacies are one of the main pillars in our Health and Social Care system and are often the front door to health services in our communities across Northern Ireland. I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to Pond Park Pharmacy, and learning more about the services they provide.

“Throughout winter, as demand for other HSC services becomes greater, Community Pharmacies continue to be a vital lifeline for many; providing safe and reliable access to medicines, professional advice, and clinical services to help people prevent and treat illness before it gets worse. 

“This winter, I strongly encourage the public to avail of the Pharmacy First programme, which uses the incredible skills of our pharmacy teams while reducing pressure in other parts of the HSC system. Ask your pharmacist for advice on colds, flu and sore throats. You do not need an appointment for this.” 

Participating Community Pharmacies also provide flu and COVID-19 vaccination. Vaccinations are the best form of defence against infectious diseases, and those eligible are being encouraged to take up the offer. You can find out where to get vaccinated here: www.nidirect.gov.uk/information-and-services/living-well/immunisation-and-vaccinations

Community Pharmacies also play an integral role in the Department’s Neighbourhood Model of Health and Wellbeing. The Minister added: “As we work to bring care closer to people’s homes and shift our focus to prevention, Community Pharmacies will be right at the centre of this new model, delivering complex clinical services our communities need, right where they live. I look forward to working with pharmacists as this model progresses.” 

Anne McAlister, National Pharmacy Association Manager in Northern Ireland, said: “It was great that Minister Butler visited NPA members Anita and Alison Rooney at Pond Park Pharmacy in Lisburn today, to get the latest picture from the pharmacy coalface about the challenges and opportunities to improve health care in Northern Ireland.

“The Minister’s visit also helped to promote the range of pharmacy services available in Northern Ireland, so that people don’t miss out on the expert support available to them in their local community.”

Minister Butler also heard about the positive impact the ePharmacy programme will have on local Community Pharmacies such as Pond Park. The £42million ePharmacy programme will modernise prescription services, replacing paper prescriptions with a fully digital system from GP to pharmacy. It is being delivered as part of a wider £102.6 million Transformation Fund investment in public sector reform.