Arun Jassal, Community Pharmacist, Newcastle Upon Tyne

Arun Jassal, a Community Pharmacist at Ponteland Road Pharmacy, Cowgate, Tyne and Wear, will be working over the Christmas holidays. His pharmacy, which is alongside an urgent care centre, will remain open Christmas Eve, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day to ensure patients in the community can access urgently needed medication. 

Why is your role required to work over Christmas? 

 As a pharmacist, my role is crucial during Christmas. Especially considering the urgent care centre next door remains open, and it’s vital to ensure patients are able to have their prescriptions filled without delay. Without our pharmacy operating, those most in need would face significant difficultly in accessing urgently needed medication. 

 Our pharmacy is the only one in the area that remains open during the Christmas holiday period, which makes our service even more important. From providing medications to offering guidance and reassurance during what can be a stressful time for patients, our presence ensures that the community has access to reliable healthcare when they need it most. 

What’s your favourite thing about work over Christmas? 

 My favourite thing about working over Christmas is the opportunity to make a tangible difference in people’s lives during a time when access to pharmacies can be limited. Many patients benefit from holiday services and express great relief when they discover we’re still open over the Christmas period. 

For many people, Christmas is a time of celebration, but for those dealing with health issues, it’s just another day where care and support are crucial. Being there to help is not just a responsibility – it’s a privilege to support our community during the festive season. 

What service do you provide over Christmas and why is it important? 

 Over Christmas, we provide a range of essential services to ensure that our community’s healthcare needs are met, even during the holiday season. This includes filling prescriptions, offering Pharmacy First services, and providing over-the-counter medications. 

Would you like to wish anyone a merry Christmas? 

 I would like to wish a very Merry Christmas and a happy New Year to all our patients, the incredible NHS workers, and everyone who is working hard over the festive season to keep our community safe and well. Your dedication and hard work are truly appreciated, especially during such a busy and challenging time of year.