Pharmacy assistants play a key role in supporting pharmacists and technicians to ensure patients receive the right medicines at the right time. In hospital pharmacy assistant roles, duties include ordering, preparing, and dispensing prescriptions, as well as helping patients with general queries about their medicines. Many pharmacy assistants also work in hospital pharmacy stores, where they manage the receipt and storage of medicines, distribute supplies across wards, and ensure stock is replenished. This behind-the-scenes work is vital for keeping pharmacy services running smoothly across our hospitals and community services. A pharmacy assistant role is an excellent first step into a career in pharmacy, with opportunities to progress into further training, including becoming a registered pharmacy technician.

Pharmacy technicians are essential members of the healthcare team, helping patients get the most from their medicines. In South West London, our pharmacy technicians work across hospitals, community services, and primary care, supporting safe and effective use of medicines every day. Their responsibilities include managing stock, supporting clinical services, contributing to clinical trials, assisting in the manufacture of medicines, and delivering education and training to colleagues. This varied role makes pharmacy technicians a vital part of the NHS workforce. To work as a pharmacy technician, you must be registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC). This requires completing a GPhC-approved Level 3 apprenticeship, which combines two years of structured training with hands-on experience in a pharmacy. Once qualified, there are excellent opportunities to progress into specialist, senior, or management positions within the NHS.

Working as a hospital pharmacist in South West London means being at the centre of patient care. Our pharmacists play a crucial role in ensuring medicines are prescribed and used safely, effectively, and appropriately across a wide range of clinical settings. From acute wards and emergency departments to specialist units such as oncology, surgery, and paediatrics, hospital pharmacists are trusted members of the multi-disciplinary team. You’ll work directly with doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to review treatments, provide expert advice, and support patients in understanding their medicines. As a hospital pharmacist, you’ll: Dispense medicines safely and accurately Advise patients on managing their conditions Monitor treatments, reviewing prescriptions and test results Manage stock and budgets to keep services running smoothly Contribute to research and clinical trials Train junior pharmacists and share your expertise Write guidelines to improve patient safety Take part in ward rounds and help reduce medicine-related admissions Hospital pharmacy offers excellent opportunities to build clinical knowledge, develop advanced skills, and progress into specialist or leadership roles. Whether you’re a newly qualified pharmacist starting a rotational programme, or an experienced practitioner looking to specialise, South West London hospitals provide the variety, challenge, and support to help you grow a rewarding NHS pharmacy career.

As a Specialist Pharmacist in South West London, you’ll have the opportunity to develop expertise in a specific clinical area while playing a vital role in patient care. Our specialist pharmacists work across a wide range of services, including oncology, paediatrics, surgery, haematology, mental health, aseptics, and medicines information. These roles allow you to work closely with multi-disciplinary teams, provide expert clinical advice, and support the safe and effective use of medicines for patients with complex needs. Many specialist pharmacists also contribute to service development, education, and training, as well as driving innovation in medicines management. With access to ongoing professional development, postgraduate qualifications, and leadership opportunities, specialist pharmacist roles in South West London are an excellent way to advance your career while making a real difference to patient outcomes.