A CAMPAIGN has been launched to raise awareness of the services and expert advice on offer in pharmacies in County Durham.

There are currently 126 pharmacies in the county providing a variety of services including treatment of minor ailments, guidance about medicine and stop smoking and drug misuse support.

Durham County Council and health organisations have teamed up to launch the Pharmacy is for Everyone scheme to highlight the expertise of pharmacists and encourage people with minor ailments to approach them for advice before their GP or accident and emergency departments– relieving the pressure on the NHS.

Councillor Lucy Hovvels, cabinet member for adult and health services at Durham County Council, said: “We are really pleased to support the Pharmacy is for Everyone campaign, as by promoting the role of pharmacies more widely we will make more people aware of the services they provide. This will not only help reduce the pressure on GPs and other parts of the NHS, but it will allow patients with minor ailments to receive the treatment or medicine they need more quickly and access the numerous pharmacy services that aim to improve the health of the local community.

“Pharmacists train for five years and are experts in medicine. They work within the community and can provide advice and services at a time to suit patients. That’s why your local pharmacy really should be your first port of call.”

To find out more about the services on offer at pharmacies visit durhamlpc.org.uk