The Pharmaceutical Journal
Vol 273 No 7328 p834
4 December 2004

Society summary

Cut-off date looms for assistants’ declaration of competence forms

The Royal Pharmaceutical Society is reminding pharmacists about the 31 December cut-off date for submitting declaration of competence forms for members of staff who are covered by the minimum competence requirement “grandparent clause”.

The grandparent clause is a transitional arrangement that allows existing staff to demonstrate their competence to a minimum standard and to continue working without the need to obtain a new qualification. It is based on prior completion of a dispensing assistants’ course and/or the completion of a declaration of competence by a pharmacist.

Andrew Gardner, the Society’s head of registration said: “We are keen to ensure everyone who is entitled to make a competency declaration knows the deadline is fast approaching and I would advise people to get their forms in the post as soon as possible.”

Janet Flint, the Society’s head of support staff regulation, said: “Any member of staff whose job includes activities that fall within the scope of the Society’s policy for dispensing/pharmacy assistants who has not been declared exempt from further training under the grandparent clause arrangements will, from 1 January 2005, be required to undertake an accredited course.”

Further information on the regulation of dispensing/pharmacy assistants, including copies of the declaration of competence form, a list of approved courses, frequently asked questions and case studies, is available from the pharmacy support staff section of the Society’s website. Copies of the declaration of competence form can also be requested from the Society’s registration section (tel 020 7572 2577; e-mail gp2@rpsgb.org). Pharmacists who require an acknowledgement should enclose a stamped addressed envelope or postcard when submitting declaration forms.