Thames Ditton residents are campaigning to bring back their local pharmacy after recent closures left a gap in health services.
Over 300 people signed a petition online, with another 200 signing on paper. They are asking for a chemist in Thames Ditton, and want Surrey Council and the NHS to agree to its return.
Many pharmacies have closed recently, with nineteen shutting down between 2022 and 2024. Pharmacies struggle with NHS funding, and some barely make enough money to stay afloat.
Karen Randolph is helping with the campaign emphasizing that pharmacies help vulnerable people. She highlights that elderly, ill, and disabled people, as well as parents with young children, need them most.
People feel a high street pharmacy is vital. A single chemist exists on Thorkhill Road currently, but the bus service is erratic and infrequent, and this, together with mobility issues, makes it harder to reach.
Delivery services don’t replace a high street chemist. Quick access is key, according to the ex-councillor, especially when GP appointments are slow and hospital waits are even worse.
A local pharmacy aids independence. Elderly neighbors, who would otherwise need to travel to Surbiton or Esher, could go to it alone and more easily.
Council papers state that Surrey needs no pharmacies. According to their study, there is no identified demand for more. The report uses resident input and expert advice, and legislation also shaped the process of writing it.
The council found pharmacy access is adequate. However, the Residents’ Association disagrees, voicing concerns about a 20-minute walk assessment which becomes a 40-minute round trip and has a significant impact on the frail and elderly.
Parking and transport were not considered during the assessment. The Healthwatch, when asked, stated it cannot influence those factors.
Randolph says someone wants to open a pharmacy, but getting a license has proven difficult so far. Red tape is slowing the progress.
The NHS uses the council’s report to make decisions, including deciding on pharmacy approvals. An identified need, according to the report, could restore the chemist soon.
The council stated that pharmacies support communities, adding that their report offers a robust needs analysis.
The council has no direct control over new pharmacy approvals. However, the assessment will be presented to council members later this month.