Pharmacy employee - 'staff shortages are down to ongoing abuse'

A local employee of Lloyds pharmacy - who has chosen to remain anonymous - says staff shortages on Island are down to 'ongoing abuse'.

Earlier this month, they told 3FM of the maltreatment they encounter on a day-to-day basis - sharing that both themselves and fellow colleagues experience screaming, swearing and even death threats.

They added 'there isn't a week' staff members aren't crying or walking out - citing the abuse as the reason the pharmacy is experiencing staff shortages. 

In one instance, they said someone had told them 'I hope you get cancer' whilst they were at work.

Earlier this year, staffing issues saw Lloyd's Pharmacy in St Paul's Square in Ramsey close - before re-opening a few weeks later.

Currently, some Lloyds Pharmacies across the Island are operating reduced opening hours.

Last month Manx Care issued a statement encouraging people to ensure that their requests for repeat prescriptions are submitted to their GP in plenty of time as due to a shortage of staff, some pharmacies are experiencing long delays.

The health board said it was 'aware that some Lloyds Pharmacies are operating with reduced opening hours on the Island, and is trying to support these teams where possible, to make sure provision is available.'

3FM has reached out to Manx Care for comment.