What do I need as a Locum Pharmacist, Technician or Dispenser to work in Scotland?

To work as a locum pharmacist, technician, or dispenser in Scotland, there are specific requirements to meet. Here's a breakdown for each role:

1. Locum Pharmacist Requirements

To work as a locum pharmacist in Scotland, you must:

Qualifications & Registration

• Be a Qualified Pharmacist

  • Hold a Master of Pharmacy (MPharm) degree or equivalent recognized qualification.

  • Complete a foundation training year (pre-registration training) and pass the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) registration exam.

• Be Registered with the GPhC

  • Ensure your GPhC registration is active and in good standing, as this is mandatory for all pharmacists in Scotland and the rest of the UK.

Other Essentials

• Indemnity Insurance: You must have professional indemnity insurance to cover your work as a locum.

• Right to Work in the UK: Ensure you have appropriate work authorization if you are not a UK citizen.

• Disclosure Checks: Some employers may require a PVG (Protecting Vulnerable Groups) check if working in sensitive environments.

• Experience: Having experience in different pharmacy settings (community or hospital) is often preferred for locum work.

2. Locum Pharmacy Technician Requirements

To work as a locum pharmacy technician in Scotland, you must:

Qualifications & Registration

• Complete an Approved Course:

  • Obtain a pharmacy technician qualification, such as an NVQ Level 3 in Pharmacy Services or a BTEC National Diploma in Pharmaceutical Science.

• Register with the GPhC:

  • Pharmacy technicians must also be registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council to practice in Scotland.

Other Essentials

• Indemnity Insurance: Similar to pharmacists, technicians must have professional indemnity insurance.

• Experience: Employers may prefer technicians who have experience with specific systems or procedures.

3. Locum Pharmacy Dispenser Requirements

Pharmacy dispensers are not required to register with the GPhC, but they must meet certain standards:

Qualifications

• Approved Training:

  • Complete a Level 2 or equivalent qualification in pharmacy services, such as a Certificate in Pharmacy Service Skills (NVQ Level 2).

  • On-the-job training is often required and provided by the employer.

Other Essentials

• Right to Work in the UK: As with pharmacists and technicians, ensure you have work authorization.

• Disclosure Checks: Depending on the role, a PVG check may be required.

• Experience: While not always essential, previous work in pharmacy settings is beneficial.

Additional Requirements for All Roles

• Adaptability: Be familiar with different pharmacy systems (e.g., PMR software) and environments.

• Driving License: Many locum roles in rural or remote areas of Scotland require a valid driver’s license.

• Good Communication Skills: Effective communication is vital for patient care and collaboration with pharmacy teams.