Pharmacies and GPs to stay OPEN this Bank Holiday

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GPs and pharmacies have been given an extra funding boost so they can stay open on the bank holiday.

Chancellor Rishi Sunak announced the move today saying it is vital Brits can get a hold of doctors and medicine even over the long weekend.

Boots has revealed plans to temporarily close 60 of its quietest stores

GPs and community pharmacies in England will be given up to £32million so that they are not out of pocket for opening on a day when their doors would normally be closed.

Community pharmacies have been directed to open with reduced hours – from 2pm to 5pm.

GP surgeries and pharmacies were also given up to £56 million last month to keep them open over the Easter weekend – just as coronavirus cases in the UK hit the peak.

The move will mean pharmacies and surgeries in areas that need it most will stay open – so customers should still call and check before they head out.

The special Friday VE Bank holiday is the 75th anniversary of Victory in Europe after World War 2.

The bank holiday was moved this year from May 1 to May 8 to mark 75 years since Nazi Germany surrendered.

Mr Sunak said he knew the value of small, local pharmacies in communities.

He said: “Growing up, working in my parent’s pharmacy in school holidays, I saw how much the local community depended on them in times of need.

“GPs and pharmacies are providing a vital service to patients across the country during this unprecedented outbreak – which is why we ensuring they can remain open on the Bank Holiday.

He added: “I want to thank doctors and pharmacists for all their hard work fighting coronavirus – we are so grateful to them.”

The Treasury is also providing the Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales with over £6 million so crucial services stay open there.

Many pharmacies have brought in personal protective equipment and screens by checkout counters to keep their staff safe while they continue to serve their customers.

 

Did you miss our previous article…
https://www.hellofaread.com/politics/lockdown-extended-for-3-weeks-with-only-minor-tweaks-after-boris-orders-maximum-caution/