CPE calls new funding deal a ‘reluctant yes’

The government has committed to working with the organisation to establish “a sustainable funding and operating model” for the future, according to CPE chief executive Janet Morrison. Community Pharmacy England (CPE) was “reluctant” to accept the new pharmacy funding deal due to the significant funding gap, said the organisation’s chief executive Janet Morrison, while recognising the settlement as the first step towards stabilising the sector. Addressing the 2025 Pharmacy Business Conference on Sunday at London Hilton Wembley, Janet shared insights into the behind-the-scenes work that led to the agreement. “I\'ve always believed that negotiations start before we enter the room, and that\'s the strategy we\'ve been pursuing for the last two and a half years. It\'s really important because by the time we walk in the room with the Department of Health and NHS England, the parameters of what they can offer us have already been set by the Treasury and by their finance schemes.” She noted that, throughout the negotiations, CPE has consistently emphasised the potential and opportunities that community pharmacy can offer.