Belonging to the RPS encourages us to transcend familiar boundaries and engage more deeply within our profession.
Shared experiences and solidarity: The COVID-19 pandemic has united us in a collective experience, weaving a thread of solidarity through the diverse tapestry of our society. Reflecting on this during the RPS’s participation in the COVID Inquiry, it is clear that such challenges not only generate a strong sense of unity but also motivate us. This enriches our collective knowledge and our ability to serve patients more effectively.
Professional growth and understanding: Active participation in the RPS yields significant rewards. It provides a window into the diverse challenges faced by professionals across various sectors of pharmacy, enhancing our understanding of the impacts of changes in legislation, environmental impacts, healthcare restructuring, inclusion and diversity and education. Engagement broadens perspectives, enhances critical thinking skills, and heightens awareness of personal biases, fostering support for colleagues with different protected characteristics.
Upskilling and career support: The RPS plays a crucial role in the upskilling of its members, essential in the era of genomics and Artificial Intelligence. The society offers targeted educational programs that keep pharmacy professionals abreast of healthcare advancements.
Cross-sector collaboration: A significant strength of the RPS lies in its ability to foster collaboration across academia, government, industry, and healthcare sectors. This multidisciplinary approach allows us to integrate diverse expertise and resources, leading to enhanced policy making and patient care.
Responding to challenges with unity and leadership: Recognising the importance of a united and robust professional leadership body is crucial. The RPS is committed to addressing challenges head-on, fostering transparency, and building trust within the profession. Strong, cohesive leadership not only guides us through adversity but also strengthens our collective ability to make impactful decisions that advance our profession and improve patient care.
A network of support and friendship: Membership in the RPS is rewarding, enriching our lives professionally and personally. Collaborating with diverse colleagues deepens connections and ensures each interaction is a valuable learning opportunity.
In essence, being part of the RPS not only expands our horizons but also contributes to a more interconnected world. This shared journey propels us toward collective progress, making our sense of belonging a catalyst for growth within the pharmacy profession, for patients and across the many different sectors we work in and influence.
Ciara Duffy
