Women in England will soon be able to access the morning-after pill free of charge at local pharmacies, as part of a new government initiative set to roll out later this year. While the medication is already available without cost through most GPs and sexual health clinics, pharmacy access has remained inconsistent - varying depending on local council funding, with some women paying up to £30.

The government hopes this change will eliminate these regional disparities and ease pressure on GP services. Emergency contraception is most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex, but access has often depended on where a woman lives. By extending NHS coverage to pharmacies, ministers aim to ensure quicker, more equitable access to this essential treatment.

Health minister Stephen Kinnock described the move as a step towards a fairer healthcare system, highlighting how many women currently face an “unjust postcode lottery” when trying to access emergency contraception. He said the plan would help guarantee timely support for all, regardless of location or income.

Pharmacy leaders welcomed the decision, calling it a win for both patients and the wider pharmacy network. However, they stressed the importance of proper NHS reimbursement to cover the cost of consultations required before the medication can be dispensed, ensuring pharmacies aren’t left out of pocket.

Community pharmacies across England have welcomed a new government funding agreement, prompting some to postpone planned protest actions. The deal, aimed at addressing longstanding financial pressures, includes a rise in funding from £2.7bn this year to £3.1bn in 2025/26, along with additional support services such as mental health consultations, blood pressure checks, and free access to the morning-after pill.

In light of the announcement, the National Pharmacy Association (NPA), which represents thousands of pharmacies, has delayed protest plans that were due to begin this week. These included reduced opening hours and potential weekend closures. While describing the package as a "step forward", the NPA highlighted that it still falls short of the funding levels needed to fully sustain the sector.

Pharmacies have faced mounting pressures from rising workloads, stagnant funding, and increasing costs - including higher employer National Insurance contributions. The sector has long warned of looming closures, with many describing the situation as "critical" and unsustainable without urgent intervention.

As part of the package, the government will also write off £193 million in pharmacy sector debt. While the move has been cautiously welcomed, industry leaders stress that more comprehensive reform is needed. The Independent Pharmacies Association said the deal is welcome but "will not stop closures", citing persistent underfunding and rising overheads.