Women in the North East and North Cumbria can now get the contraceptive pill straight from their local pharmacy – no GP appointment needed

Women across the North East and North Cumbria can now get the contraceptive pill directly from their local community pharmacy, with no need to book a GP appointment.

The new NHS service is available in every community pharmacy across the region, offering a quick, easy, and convenient way for women who are already taking the pill, or thinking about starting it, to access supplies.

Women can walk into a pharmacy without booking ahead and ask for a private, confidential conversation with a trained pharmacist. Pharmacists can provide either a first supply of the pill or continue an existing prescription. 

The service is free, with no prescription charges and helps GP surgeries, and sexual health clinics, by freeing up appointments for those with more complex needs.

Dr Alex Kent, GP and medical director, NHS North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB), described the move as a big step forward in giving women more choice and flexibility in looking after their health. 

"Local pharmacies can already treat simple urine infections (UTIs) in women, including prescribing antibiotics if needed," she said.

"Now, they can also provide the contraceptive pill, whether someone is starting it for the first time or continuing with their regular prescription. 

"Community pharmacists are now playing a bigger role than ever before in making healthcare easier to access and giving women more control over their reproductive health."

With a patient's consent, the pharmacy will inform their GP practice that the service has been used, but it is also available to anyone not registered with a GP. 

Women will continue to have their annual pill check-up, just as they would at their GP practice, when they return for their next supply.

Anyone experiencing side effects that do not settle after a few months is encouraged to speak to their pharmacist or GP as soon as possible.

The contraception pill is free, and the service confidential, including for those under 16. No one, including parents or carers, will be informed unless there is a serious concern for the individual’s safety or wellbeing.

For more information, or to find a participating pharmacy, visit Find a pharmacy offering the contraceptive pill.