Cencora UK leaders collaborate with IHP to aid vulnerable global communities

Leaders from Alloga, PharmaLex, Alliance Healthcare, and World Courier came together to support our longstanding charity partner, International Health Partners with a donation of medicines.

The volunteering saw senior team members Marie Evans (Alliance Healthcare), Nick Blurton (Alloga UK), Paulina Wroblewska (Alloga), Ryan Williams (Alloga), Trey Anderson (Alloga), Jon Jeffery (PharmaLex), Regina Dawkins (PharmaLex) and Simon Beaumont (World Courier) ] build and distribute Essential Health Packs for IHP. These packs contain a diverse range of medical supplies that are destined for people and communities around the world that need them the most. Acting as portable pharmacies, each pack contains crucial medicines such as antibiotics and analgesics and their compact size makes them ideal for reaching even the most hard-to-reach and remote areas.

Claire Ward, Labour’s East Midlands Mayoral candidate, also joined the activity during her visit to the Alloga and Alliance Healthcare Customer Service site.

Alliance Healthcare Opens Access to Cancer Symptom Referral Scheme to UK Pharmacies Following Successful Launch Across Alphega Pharmacy Network

The ‘Not Normal for You?’ (NNFY) scheme, which enables pharmacists to refer patients showing potential cancer symptoms to their GPs, will be available to pharmacies across the UK following Alliance Healthcare’s decision to expand the scheme to all pharmacies.

As part of the rollout, Alliance Healthcare will provide pharmacies with marketing materials - including leaflets and referral cards, free-of-charge, as part of their standard delivery.

The scheme, pioneered by Alphega Pharmacy member - Jackie Lewis, owner of Lewis Pharmacy in Exmouth, was rolled out across the Alphega Pharmacy network of more than 1,000 pharmacies in the UK in October 2023.

Through the scheme, pharmacy teams are trained to spot potential early symptoms of cancers and other illnesses. All pharmacy staff, from counter assistants to pharmacists, will be trained to look for ‘red flag’ symptoms and behaviour, which may be indicative of certain cancers.

Following the identification of symptoms, a pharmacist can discuss the issue with the individual and encourage them to visit their GP if appropriate. Symptoms are written on the back of an eye-catching ‘Not Normal for You?’ orange referral card which can be presented to a GP inorder to confirm symptoms. Although the NNFY card does not enable a faster GP visit, it acts as a mode of validation of symptoms which makes it quicker for a GP to give a referral.

The brightly coloured referral card often acts as a prompt for patients to book an appointment with their GP, further increasing the likelihood of diagnosis after potential symptoms have been identified by pharmacy staff.

The initial rollout of the scheme across Alphega pharmacies showed that NNFY was extremely effective in enabling pharmacists to refer patients to their GPs, which was largely due to the existing relationship between pharmacy staff and their patients.

Jackie Lewis first rolled out the scheme to 10 pharmacies across East Devon after she was awarded £10,000 in funding from the National Pharmacy Association’s (NPA’s) Health Education Forum. Jackie is also extremely grateful to Bristol Myers Squibb for their grant which enabled material development, upscale and roll out of the project. The pilot of the scheme was a success and led to its rollout across Alphega pharmacies.

Jackie has also developed a free online training programme called: ‘Let’s communicate cancer’ which aims to teach pharmacy teams about cancer symptoms using videos and quizzes. The resource is hosted on the British Oncology Pharmacy Association website and the NPA’s websites.

During the pilot a patient in one pharmacy was encouraged to visit his GP following a repeat request for purchase of cough medicine. The pharmacist concerned attended a practice meeting and was informed that this particular patient had been diagnosed with lung cancer as a result of her referral, six months later his wife came into the pharmacy and thanked the pharmacist as her husband was now in remission.

This case study is in Module 1 of Let’s Communicate Cancer.

The pilot also revealed several cases of skin cancer.

Participation in the scheme will be open to pharmacies across the UK. More information about the scheme and how to participate can be found at: Bopa.org.uk/cancerhub

Jackie Lewis  said: “The ‘Not Normal for You?’ scheme offers pharmacists and their staff resources and training for the early identification of cancer in patients visiting their pharmacy. The timely detection of cancer is incredibly important and I would encourage pharmacies across the UK to participate in the scheme. By equipping frontline healthcare providers with the tools to recognise potential symptoms, lives can be saved through early treatment.”

Dr Mandeep Mudhar, Head of Alphega Pharmacy UK, adds: “The ‘Not Normal for You?’ scheme has been positively received by Alphega Pharmacy members and engagement continues to increase. With 1.6 million people visiting their community pharmacy each day in England, pharmacists are well-placed to support, and Jackie has worked tirelessly to increase awareness and empower pharmacists to have more agency when supporting their patients. We will continue to encourage our members and pharmacies to offer this service to their patients as part of our ambition to create healthier futures for all.”

Best Kept Secret: the value of Clinical Homecare to the NHS, patients and society

A new independent report commissioned by the NCHA has been released, shining new light on the value of Clinical Homecare. ‘Best Kept Secret: the value of Clinical Homecare to patients, the NHS and society’ has been steered by an independent panel of experts and shines new light on the benefits of homecare to patients, NHS and society.

Clinical Homecare can significantly enhance patients’ lives, enabling them to maintain independence, sustain relationships and pursue work or education. Clinical Homecare also provides significant financial savings and benefits to the NHS and wider society. Despite this, Clinical Homecare remains absent from long-term NHS plans, resulting in a significant missed opportunity.

Follow this link to read the full report: clinicalhomecare.org/bestkeptsecret

Alcura is proud to be a full member of the NCHA, adhering to its stringent Code of Practice and membership criteria. Our commitment to these standards ensures that we provide patients, healthcare professionals and commissioners with the assurance of rigorous excellence in all aspects of Clinical Homecare services we offer.

South Normanton customer service centre welcomes Claire Ward

This week we welcomed Claire Ward, the mayoral candidate for the East Midlands, to our customer service centre in South Normanton and the Alloga UK Amber Park warehouse facility.

Claire met our Customer Service Agents to hear about the 1.5million customer conversations the team support each year, before meeting some of the 1,500 Alloga team members to learn more about the pre-wholesale business.

Claire also spent time with Marie Evans, Managing Director, Alliance Healthcare UK, who said: “It’s been wonderful to welcome Claire to the site and I’m delighted she had the opportunity to join our volunteering work in packing doctor packs full of essential medicines with International Health Partners today."

Early detection paves the way for healthier futures: Highlights from AHUK’s Cancer Day Event

Alliance Healthcare UK recently hosted an impactful World Cancer Day Coffee morning, shining a light on the urgency and importance of early cancer detection. The event was marked by compelling discussions, heartfelt stories, and resilience against this global health challenge.

"Never, never, ever give up."

The event kicked off with Matt Addison, Operation Director at Alliance Healthcare UK, presenting key cancer statistics that underscored the importance of early detection. His opening speech was filled with inspiring messages of strength, determination, and hope. He shared powerful phrases like "What doesn't kill us makes us stronger", "I can, and I will", and "Never, never, ever give up". These words set a strong theme for the event: standing strong against cancer and how early detection can save lives.

Jackie Lewis: A pillar in pharmacy

Pharmacist Director, and valued Alliance Healthcare customer, Jackie Lewis, provided invaluable insights from her own journey with cancer. Owner of Lewis Pharmacy in Exmouth for 19 years and an Alphega Pharmacy member, she encourages community pharmacists to support their patients on the cancer pathway.

Jackie has developed ‘Let’s Communicate Cancer’, a comprehensive training package for pharmacy teams that has received national accreditation from NHS. In collaboration with Alliance Healthcare UK, she introduced ‘Not Normal for You’—a service designed to enable pharmacy staff to identify early stages of cancer in patients.

Understanding cancer staging & trends

The importance of understanding cancer staging was highlighted during the event. With nearly half of all cancer cases diagnosed at stage 3 or 4—which is harder to treat—the goal set by NHS is to diagnose 75% of cancers at stage 1 or 2 by 2028.

38% of cancer cases are deemed preventable

With 38% of cancer cases deemed preventable, maintaining a healthy lifestyle was emphasised as crucial—non-smoking status, healthy weight management, nutritious eating habits, abstaining from alcohol consumption and sun safety are key preventive measures.

Regular screenings can help detect potential issues early; however, barriers such as embarrassment or fear often deter individuals from these important appointments—a concern discussed at length during the coffee morning.

Maximising opportunities within Pharmacy

Pharmacies are uniquely positioned to aid early detection—through over-the-counter conversations, consultations during vaccinations or simply asking about symptoms when customers buy medications. The 'Not Normal for You' service is one such initiative aimed at leveraging these opportunities for better patient outcomes.

“Cancer doesn't discriminate.”

Lee Garrett, National Account Manager – Hospitals, shared his personal experiences with cancer and the story of his friend Ben who has received 75 rounds of chemo and won’t stop until he beats Cancer.

His message was clear—if something doesn't feel right get it checked out without delay or embarrassment because "cancer doesn't discriminate". His recent challenge—to run 40 miles with family for Royal Marsden Charity—is a testament to showing support for those living with cancer and raising awareness of early detection.

Through hosting events like these and supporting patients via Alcura through their treatment process; Alliance Healthcare UK reaffirms its commitment towards creating healthier futures. This is more than just our purpose—it's a promise we live up to each day. United in our responsibility, we continue to take proactive steps forward in the battle against cancer, turning hope into action for a healthier tomorrow.

Celebrating National Apprenticeship Week and the incredible impact apprenticeships have on individuals, businesses, and the economy

This week, we proudly celebrate our apprentices at Alliance Healthcare, including Karly Godber, Customer Care Coordinator. Since joining us in 2018, Karly has completed two apprenticeships and experienced remarkable growth due to her commitment to learning and development.

Karly shares her journey: "Starting as a Customer Service Advisor, I was determined to build a career within Alliance Healthcare. I seized every opportunity and enrolled in an apprenticeship to achieve Customer Services Level 2. It not only enhanced my confidence but also led to a promotion as Senior Advisor. The SWOT model I learned on the course really helped structure my interview answers."

Following this, I embarked on the Team Leader Level 3 course. Despite virtual workshops due to the pandemic, we learned extensive knowledge from leaders across various areas of the business. Within three months, I became a Team Manager and utilised my newfound skills during a challenging period of change."

Apprenticeships have not only given me more skills and confidence in my career path, but they have also provided development opportunities and progression at Alliance Healthcare. As a team manager, I've encouraged eight team members to pursue their own apprenticeships, resulting in improved service and overall customer experience!"

Karly has now recently joined the Area Customer Care Management team and we wish her the best of luck in her new role!

Alliance Healthcare UK and Pharmacist Support Join Forces for Student Bursary Scheme

Alliance Healthcare UK, the country's largest medicines wholesaler, is partnering with Pharmacist Support in a three-year collaboration. Their joint effort will bolster the charity’s Student Bursary Scheme. 

Pharmacist Support is an independent charity that strives to enhance the well-being of pharmacists and their communities. A key initiative of theirs is the Student Bursary Scheme. This programme offers invaluable aid to 3rd year MPharm students (or 4th-year students on a 5-year sandwich degree) who are coping with unexpected hurdles. The scheme assists students enduring financial difficulties to proceed with their studies and make valuable contributions to Great Britain's pharmacy sector. 

Successful applicants receive bursaries between £3,000 and £5,000. These funds equip them with resources to surmount challenges and forge successful careers in pharmacy. 

Danielle Hunt, Chief Executive of Pharmacist Support, shared her enthusiasm about this partnership:  

"Collaborating with Alliance Healthcare UK represents a significant stride in our continuous endeavour to support future generations of pharmacists." 

Hunt also highlighted that both organisations share a commitment towards empowering the upcoming generation of pharmacy professionals. By engaging in this long-term collaboration, Alliance Healthcare UK becomes instrumental in driving Pharmacist Support's strategic plans for lasting change within the pharmacy industry. 

Marie Evans, Managing Director at Alliance Healthcare UK echoed Hunt's sentiments:  

"We are excited to partner with Pharmacist Support on their annual Student Bursary Scheme. This partnership reflects our commitment to investing in the future of pharmacy professionals and fostering a supportive environment for aspiring talents in the field. We believe in the importance of investing in the education and well-being of aspiring pharmacists, and this partnership aligns perfectly with our values and commitment to making a positive impact on the communities we serve." 

This three-year agreement marks an advancement in fostering positive change within the pharmacy sector by providing opportunities for growth and success. Both organisations anticipate making substantial contributions to student lives through the Pharmacist Support Student Bursary Scheme which launches on 29th January 2024. 

The central message behind this partnership is unequivocal: both organisations are profoundly committed to aiding those within the pharmacy profession who are grappling with adversity. This collaborative endeavour not only demonstrates corporate social responsibility but also promises enduring improvements within the broader pharmacy community. 

How can students apply?

The Bursary Scheme will open on Monday 29 January 2024

To request a bursary application form and guidance notes, Students should email grants@pharmacistsupport.org with evidence that they are enrolled on the 3rd year of an MPharm degree course (or 4th year if undertaking a 5-year sandwich/integrated degree).

The closing date for applications is 22 April 2024.

Exeter site welcomes local MP

On Friday 12 December we hosted a visit from Exeter’s Labour MP, Ben Bradshaw, and the Party’s parliamentary candidate for Exeter, Steve Race, Alliance Healthcare’s Exeter service centre in Marsh Barton.

Ben and Steve were given a full tour of the site by Simon Jones, Regional Operations Manager, and Lewis Bonthrone, Fleet and Transport Manager. The two were shown how our sites deliver medicine to over 1,400 sites across the southwest and met some of the 200+ Exeter team members, such as Luke Howarth and Angela Ford pictured.

Following the tour of the site, Ben and Steve were briefed about the business and the important role the site plays in the medical supply chain. The two were impressed by the enormous coverage of the Exeter service centre and our importance to the medical supply chain as the UK’s largest distributor of NHS medicines.

Our teams are committed to creating healthier futures. Together with our suppliers and partners, we play a vital role in helping patients get the medicines they need in the right place, at the right time.

Thank you to everyone involved in the visit and a special thanks to those at the Exeter site for all of your hard work.

Alliance Healthcare team member receives King’s New Year’s Honour

We are thrilled to share that Alliance Healthcare UK’s Health & Safety expert, Jon Cornforth, has been recommended by his Majesty the King to receive the honour of the Medal of the Order of the British Empire (BEM), for service to the community of Rotherham in South Yorkshire, particularly during the Covid 19 pandemic.

Jon was dedicated to keeping teams and customers safe during the pandemic, enabling us to deliver medication, including vaccines and lateral flow tests to the NHS, pharmacy and dispensing doctors seamlessly throughout. He has given a huge amount of time to fundraise for various charities, alongside supporting young people of all educational and social backgrounds and abilities, to encourage triumph over adversity. 

Sally Gillborn MBE, CEO of North Notts Business Improvement District described him as a “compassionate, community minded individual who will always go that extra mile to help wherever he can”, He is also recognised for his hands-on help given to local charities, schools and colleges.

His impressive list of contributions include:

• - Championing the skills agenda for young people overcoming difficulties including drug addiction.
• - Working to help ex-offenders in a prison to improve their long-term employment prospects.
• - Presenting to Y11 students to provide hope and reassurance to those who didn’t excel in academic      exams.
• - Sourcing plumbing and building materials for a local college for use by apprentice plumbers and   builders and by the charity ‘Hope for the Homeless’, to be used to upgrade housing.
• - Developing the first business plan for the North Notts Business Improvement District Steering    Group, ensuring that skills and community initiatives were at its forefront.
• - Working with the Rotherham United Community Sports Trust, who support education, inclusion,   health and fitness.
• - Fundraising for Rotherham College.
• - Providing local schools with advice, hand sanitiser, posters and social distancing kits during the   pandemic.
• - Completing the Yorkshire Peaks challenge for charity three times.

When asked about this amazing recognition he said “I don’t do any of it for my own personal reward – I just like helping people.”

Congratulations, Jon-Paul Cornforth BEM!

Alliance Healthcare UK supports Mental Health UK this December

Mental Health UK is a charity that delivers national and local services that promote understanding and management of mental health in a person-centered and empathetic way. We are proud to be supporting better mental health for all in December, and have raised over £1,300 so far from festive fundraising stalls and a Christmas raffle at our Support Centre.

Amidst our busiest time of year, our Operation team membersalso found the time to give back to local causes and communities nationwide. Today, Exeter generously donated over 40 lunches to St Petrock’s, a local charity that has been supporting homelessness for a decade. We extend our gratitude to all our teams for coming together this month to support those who need it most.