Safeguarding

Staying safe during your training

Your safety and well-being are essential while training and working in a pharmacy setting. Below are key areas to be aware of, along with resources to support you.

Your Safeguarding Guidance

Your training and work should be a positive experience. By following these guidelines and using available resources, you can ensure a safe and supportive environment. If in doubt, always ask for help - you're never alone.

With more learning and work happening online, staying cyber-secure is crucial.
Top Tips:
- Use strong passwords and enable multi-factor authentication.
- Be cautious with emails—don’t click suspicious links or share personal details.
- Only access and store patient or learner data through secure systems.
Need Help?
- National Cyber Security Centre: www.ncsc.gov.uk – Advice on staying safe online.
- ICO (Information Commissioner’s Office): www.ico.org.uk – Learn about data protection and GDPR.
- Report phishing emails: www.ncsc.gov.uk/phishing
Balancing study, work, and life can be challenging. Protect your physical and mental health.
Top Tips:
- Take regular breaks to prevent burnout.
- Stay hydrated and eat well to keep energy levels stable.
- If you're struggling, reach out—there’s support available.
Need Help?
- NHS Every Mind Matters: www.nhs.uk/every-mind-matters – Mental health support and self-help strategies.
- Pharmacist Support: www.pharmacistsupport.org – Well-being support for pharmacy professionals.
- Samaritans (24/7 helpline): Call 116 123 or visit www.samaritans.org
A pharmacy environment presents unique safety risks—know how to protect yourself and others.
Top Tips:
- Always wear PPE and follow hygiene procedures.
- Report any faulty equipment or hazards to your manager.
- Familiarise yourself with emergency exits and first aid procedures.
Need Help?
- Health & Safety Executive (HSE): www.hse.gov.uk – Workplace safety guidance.
- Reporting a workplace accident: www.hse.gov.uk/riddor
- First Aid Guidance (British Red Cross): www.redcross.org.uk/first-aid
Maintaining high professional standards is essential in pharmacy practice.
Top Tips:
- Keep patient and customer information confidential.
- Follow all workplace policies, including safeguarding procedures.
- Report any concerns about misconduct or unsafe practices.
Need Help?
- General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC): www.pharmacyregulation.org – Regulatory guidance and standards.
- Whistleblowing guidance (Protect): www.protect-advice.org.uk – Confidential whistleblowing advice.
Everyone deserves respect and fair treatment—contribute to an inclusive environment.
Top Tips:
- Challenge discrimination and unconscious bias.
- Treat colleagues and customers with fairness and respect.
- Support initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion.
Need Help?
- ACAS (Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service): www.acas.org.uk – Advice on workplace discrimination and rights.
- Equality and Human Rights Commission: www.equalityhumanrights.com – Understanding your rights.
If something doesn’t feel right, speak up. There are always people who can help.
Top Tips:
- If you feel unsafe, talk to your tutor, manager, or HR team.
- Use official reporting channels for workplace issues.
- Seek external support if you're unsure where to turn.
Need Help?
- Citizens Advice: www.citizensadvice.org.uk – General guidance on work-related concerns.
- Safeguarding concerns (NSPCC Helpline): Call 0808 800 5000 or visit www.nspcc.org.uk
- Trade Unions (Unison, GMB, etc.): Check www.tuc.org.uk for advice on employment rights.

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