Independent Prescribing (IP)
There is a national programme of work looking at how we better use the clinical and prescribing skills within community pharmacy. The community pharmacy Independent Prescribing (IP) Pathfinder Programme ran from 2023 and is now informing the Community Pharmacy Contractual Framework (CPCF) for 2026/27.
The Independent Prescribing Pathfinder programme was evaluated to learn about what worked well and how independent prescribing models might work for the benefit of the wider population in future. Read the evaluation here.
The NHS has clearly signalled its national strategic ambitions outlined in the 10 Year Health Plan for England: Fit for the Future and Next steps for integrating primary care: Fuller stocktake report, all of which emphasise the need to transform access to care and better utilise the broader health and care workforce. We are now waiting to see what comes out from DH, NHSE and CPE contractual framework negotiations.
Independent Prescribing Funded Courses Available to March 2027 & DPP Support
IP is clearly central to the future of community pharmacy and the wider NHS. With funded training now extended until March 2027, West Yorkshire has an extended window to build a confident, capable prescribing workforce ready for emerging clinical pathways and future national services.
If you are a West Yorkshire community pharmacist, see our call-to-action document below to find out what you can do to ensure you are ready.
Pharmacists who meet the eligibility criteria will be able to apply for independent prescribing courses at a variety of universities across England. More information including eligibility criteria, funding, and details of approved universities can be found on the NHS England website here. For any further enquiries, please contact england.pharmacyteam@nhs.net.
CPWY Independent Prescribing Blogs – May / June 2026
CPWY is currently publishing a five‑part blog series on Independent Prescribing, featuring insights from pharmacists who’ve completed the course, a DPP and a university colleague. Each piece offers practical tips, honest reflections and guidance to help you understand the course, what it involves and the support available. See the published blogs so far below.
A Note from Nicola – Independent Prescribing
A Blog from Aneta Paluch, Well Pharmacy – Independent Prescribing
A Blog from Dr Philip Xiu, Local GP & DPP – Independent Prescribing
A Blog from Solomon Abuede, Community Pharmacist Prescriber – Independent Prescribing
DPP Support– Become a DPP or Find One Today
Are you a prescriber looking to contribute to the development of prescribing professions? Becoming a Designated Prescribing Practitioner (DPP) offers a unique opportunity to support the next generation of prescribers while enhancing your own professional development and leadership skills. As the demand for independent prescribers in healthcare grows, so too does the need for experienced DPPs to guide trainees through their prescribing journey. See the flyer below.
Support the Future of Prescribing – Become a DPP or Find One Today
At the same time, for those preparing to undertake their independent prescribing (IP) training, finding a suitable DPP can be a significant barrier. That’s where DPP Support comes in. This NHS England supported directory of DPPs is a dedicated platform designed to:
- Support prescribers interested in becoming DPPs.
- Connect IP trainees with experienced prescribers.
- Promote safe, effective supervision and high-quality prescribing education.
Whether you’re ready to take on the DPP role or seeking a DPP to support your IP training, DPP Support makes it easier to take the next step.
Visit www.dppsupport.co.uk to find out more, access resources, and register your interest. Also, see how DPP Support works in this video here.
Independent Prescribing Pathfinder Programme
West Yorkshire ICB participated in the NHSE IP Pathfinder programme involving 11 community pharmacies who supported patients through 3 clinical models:
- Extended Minor Illness
- Community Pharmacy Enhanced Support for Quality, Optimised and Safer Prescribing (QOSP)
- Cardiovascular Disease (CVD)
Congratulations and thank you to our 11 community pharmacy sites across West Yorkshire who have all contributed to delivering the IP Pathfinder Programme. See our Sharing Success news item about the programme here.
Last Updated: 17th June 2026
