S1 Episode 4: Shilpa Shah

In this episode of Policy Unpacked, we sit down with Shilpa Shah, CEO of North East London LPC and advisor to the Global Policy Network, to explore the evolving role of community pharmacy in the health and care system.

We unpack leadership in pharmacy, the realities of delivering primary care at the frontline, and the importance of compassion in shaping both professional and voluntary service. From misconceptions to mentorship, Shilpa reflects on 25 years in the sector and what gives her hope for the future.

Community Pharmacy Today

· What it means to lead a regional pharmacy body and what’s changed over the years

· The most pressing challenges facing community pharmacists

· Key misconceptions about the sector and how to overcome them

· Untapped potential in pharmacy services and partnerships

Leadership, Charity & Compassion

· How Shilpa’s work with Samaritans and Crisis informs her professional ethos

· Bridging mental health support for pharmacists

· Lessons community pharmacy can learn from the voluntary sector

The Future of Pharmacy

· The potential of scaling independent prescribing

· The role of AI and technology in transforming pharmacy practice

· Why now is the time to spotlight untapped potential in community care

GPN and Final Reflections

· Shilpa’s involvement in GPN’s pharmacy roundtable series

· What excites her about GPN’s mission and the future of integrated care

· Topics we’re not talking about enough - and why they matter

· Why early career mentorship matters in pharmacy policy and practice

KEY THEMES
Leadership in Community Pharmacy
Challenges and Misconceptions
Mental Health, Volunteering and Compassion
Future Innovations in Care
GPN and Policy Mentorship

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