Dispenser Joanne Hartley and supervisor/service manager, Nosheen Yaqub, Rockwell Pharmacy Plus Health Bradford. Joanne and Nosheen have worked in pharmacy for more than 14 years and their shared skill and dedication mean they are a dream team when it comes to supporting patients over the Christmas and New Year period. Nosheen has recently undertaken additional training to allow the team to offer even more services to patients, from vaccinations to BP checks.

Why is your role required to work over Christmas?

Joanne – We work over the Xmas period to ensure patients receive their medication and healthcare advice.

By working during the festive season, we help ensure that patients and their families can focus on enjoying the season, knowing their health and well-being are in good hands.

Nosheen – Our Pharmacy plays a crucial role during the holiday season. Many people rely on us for urgent medication, and over the counter treatments, and support for managing their health.

Our presence brings peace of mind to many, and that makes working over Christmas not just necessary, but truly meaningful

Why do you like working over Christmas?

Joanne – I like working over the Xmas period as the atmosphere in the pharmacy is enjoyable and the patients are friendly. I love the festive spirit and it brings me a sense of joy – it’s the best time of the year!

Nosheen – Working over Christmas brings a sense of community and purpose. It’s rewarding to know that we’re helping people during what can be stressful time, especially for those who are unwell or need reassurance. Plus, the festive cheer from colleagues and patients makes the day extra special!

What’s your favourite thing about work over Christmas?

Joanne – The favourite thing about working over this period is the happy atmosphere and organising patients’ medication so they are not left without. This means they don’t need to worry over this time when they are celebrating with friends and family, which gives me peace of mind.

Nosheen – I also love the festive spirit in the pharmacy- its heartwarming to see patients and colleagues exchange smiles and holiday wishes. It’s also a time when we can really make a difference by ensuring patients have everything they need for holidays.

What can patients/the public do to help you?

Joanne – Patients can help by ordering their medication in advance, and allowing extra time as it’s a very busy time of the year

Nosheen – As Joanne has mentioned, patients can really help us by planning ahead and submitting their repeat prescription requests in good time. It also makes a big difference when patients show kindness and patience during what is a busy time for us.

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

Joanne – I make up the Dosette boxes (tablet organisers broken down into small compartments), which are filled with the medicines needed to support patients who are impaired with their memory, dexterity or at risk of overdose. My personal service is to ensure I work the dates I need to cover and make up additional weekly boxes where needed so that those patients aren’t worried about not having enough medicines to cover the Christmas period. I also liaise with the surgery to order any prescriptions early enough.  The Christmas period can create unique challenges, such as more limited access to GPs, so this is where we step in to ensure everyone has what they need through the Christmas period.

Nosheen – We provide essential medication and healthcare advice, as well as emergency prescriptions. This ensure patients with chronic conditions or unexpected illnesses are looked after, no matter the season.

Would you like to wish anyone a merry Christmas?

Joanne -I would like to wish all my colleagues and all our patients a Merry Xmas and thank them for their continued trust in our service.

Nosheen- I’d also like to wish all our patients and their families a Merry Christmas and thank them. In addition, I would like to thank my amazing team for all their hard work throughout the whole year.