The following joint statement from PDA Union and Boots was issued at 2.00 pm on Wednesday 21 September 2022:
Joint Statement from Boots and the PDA Union – 21 September 2022
Agreement reached between Boots and the PDA in settlement of the 2022 pay deal for Pharmacists.
Following constructive discussions between Boots Management Services and the PDA Union negotiators, agreement has been reached in relation to this year’s pay claim, effective from 1 November 2022.
Boots and the PDA Union (PDAU) recognise the current unique market circumstances within the community pharmacy sector relating to the pharmacist workforce and this has been reflected in the agreed package of pay and benefits. Consideration has been given to current price inflation along with the ability of the business to afford and sustain any agreed increases.
The agreement consists of the following changes to pay and benefits:
1. All eligible pharmacists within the bargaining unit will receive a 4.5% pay increase effective from 1 November.
For those who have already had a pay increase on or since 1 August 2022, where that increase has been less than 4.5%, a ‘top up’ increase will be provided, from 1 November 2022, to ensure that all eligible members of the bargaining unit receive a pay increment of not less than 4.5% in 2022.
On this occasion Boots and the PDA Union have agreed an increase to the pay of those above the maximum market range by 4% with an additional 0.5% non-consolidated payment.
This year pharmacists who are ineligible for the negotiated increase are:
• Those who have joined on or since 1 August 2022
• Those rated as not performing at EOY FY22
• Trainee Pharmacists2. An agreement to continue the current short notice payments, to recognise the commitment and flexibility of pharmacists as follows:
There will be a payment of £100 for pharmacists who work on a non-planned day with less than 48 hours’ notice to cover short notice absence*.
This would be based on £100 for an eight-hour day and pro-rated if the shift length is shorter.
Pharmacists continue to perform a vital role within their local communities and we value the contribution that Pharmacists make every day to patients, communities and the business.
* unplanned absences arising within 48 hr period only.
Download the joint statement
PDA members at Boots were sent a full briefing about the pay settlement from the union by email yesterday.
PDA members at Boots can contact the PDA Service Centre or speak to one of the PDA Union Network at Boots if they have any queries relating to this statement.
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