About nine out of 10 pharmacies have experienced a display flight and an increase in aggressive behavior in the past year, a survey revealed.
Out of 476 pharmacies in England interviewed by the National Pharmacy Association (NPA), 88% said they had increased an increase in display incidents.
About 87% reported an increase in aggressive or intimidating behavior towards pharmacy staff, while 22% said there had been physical assault against team members.
Nearly three -quarters of those who reported these incidents to the police estimated that the response was insufficient.
Sanjeev Paneful, owner of a pharmacy in Birmingham, said that there had been a “notable increase” of display flight on its sites in the last 12 to 18 months, which includes some people filling stock bags before going out.
Mr. Panesar said that his staff “can withstand verbal abuses or physical intimidation”.
“To face such hostility is not only discouraging, but has a lasting effect on work satisfaction, morale and feelings of safety at work,” he said.
He previously called on security agents and even hunted the offenders on several occasions.
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Out of 476 pharmacies, almost nine out of 10 saw an increase in the display flight. Pic: Istock
‘We have to do more’
The NPA, which represents more than 6,000 community pharmacies, said that the results of the survey were “unacceptable” and “appalling”.
“Although pharmacies take their own steps to protect their staff and premises, the police should do much more to fight crimes such as display, which is becoming increasingly currency,” said NPA Director Henry Gregg.
Mr. Gregg also warned that theft of analgesic strong or benzodiazepines “Could have serious consequences for someone’s health.”
Mr. Gregg added: “We have to do more to fight against the display flight as well as to offer pharmacies similar to other NHS colleagues in primary care to protect their staff and premises.”