RESULTS form a survey showing less than a third of black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) pharmacies in the UK have been approached by their employer to have a workplace risk assessment during the COVID-19 pandemic, are "shocking" according to the Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS).
The low levels of risk assessments for BAME pharmacy staff follows data from Public Health England and the British Office of National Statistics, showing people from ethnic minority backgrounds have a disproportionately higher risk of dying from COVID-19.
RPS President, Sandra Gidley, said it was essential that pharmacists are properly risk assessed.
"Those at high risk can be supported to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission, while still providing a vital service to the NHS and the public," she said.
"Lessons are to be learned from this pandemic, especially with the risk of a second wave, and we now need action so our workforce is protected."
The survey conducted by the RPS and the UK Black Pharmacists' Association also found 78% of black pharmacists and pharmacy students believed they were at risk and wanted changes to be made to the way they work.
The above article was sent to subscribers in Pharmacy Daily's issue from 29 Jun 20
To see the full newsletter, see the embedded issue below or CLICK HERE to download Pharmacy Daily from 29 Jun 20
