Health Minister Mike Nesbitt has launched the Community Pharmacy Palliative Care Network during a visit to McCoubrey's Chemist in north Belfast.

Operating across approximately 60 community pharmacies, the Network is designed to improve rapid access to palliative care medicines and specialist guidance, strengthening end-of-life support in local communities.

Health Minister Mike Nesbitt said: "The launch of the Community Pharmacy Palliative Care Network marks an important step in strengthening palliative care across Northern Ireland. The Network, which was referenced in our Winter Preparedness Plan, will ensure that patients and their families receive timely, compassionate support at one of the most difficult times in life.

"I want to acknowledge the dedication of our community pharmacists, Community Pharmacy Northern Ireland (CPNI) and officials in my Department, for working together to make this service a reality. "Your commitment and collaboration demonstrates the power of partnership in delivering better care for our communities, as well as helping to ease pressures on our hospitals during this busy season."

The Department of Health has worked with Community Pharmacy NI (CPNI) to co-design and implement the new service.

Chief Executive of Community Pharmacy NI Gerard Greene said: "Community Pharmacies play a vital role in supporting patients and their families at what can be a very difficult end of life stage.

"The launch of the Palliative Care Network provides a further level of support ensuring timely access to medicines and specialist advice will be available."

The initiative supports the Minister's commitment to 'shift left', placing greater emphasis on community pharmacies within the new Neighbourhood Model of Care, as set out in the Reset Plan.

The Department is also encouraging all pharmacies to adopt the Daffodil Standards—a joint initiative by the Royal Pharmaceutical Society and Marie Curie, supported by Pharmacy Forum NI and Community Pharmacy NI—which provide a framework to further enhance the high quality of care offered to palliative care patients and their families.