Sustaining the workforce: job retention and workforce challenges among community pharmacists in Northern Ireland

Community pharmacists are vital to healthcare delivery in Northern Ireland, providing accessible patient care and public health services. However, the sector faces increasing challenges relating to job satisfaction, retention, and workforce stability. Existing evidence highlights systemic pressures, funding constraints, and limited career progression, but little is known about the lived experiences of pharmacists in Northern Ireland.

This qualitative study used a descriptive design and thematic analysis to explore community pharmacists' perspectives on workforce challenges and retention. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 pharmacists from across all six counties of Northern Ireland between January and May 2025. Participants were purposively sampled to ensure diversity in age, experience, and pharmacy type. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed inductively following Braun and Clarke's six-step framework.

Six overarching themes were identified: (1) Professional fulfilment and identity, (2) Workplace culture and relationships, (3) Systemic pressures and workload burden, (4) Financial strain and limited career progression, (5) Workforce dynamics and generational shifts, and (6) Role development and professional support needs. Pharmacists derived satisfaction from patient rapport and role variety but reported these motivators were increasingly undermined by medicine shortages, workload intensity, unsustainable funding, and lack of structured career pathways. Generational changes and the appeal of locum work added further complexity, while enthusiasm for role expansion, particularly prescribing, was constrained by liability concerns and insufficient recognition.

Community pharmacists in Northern Ireland remain motivated by professional fulfilment and patient-centred care, but systemic, financial, and structural barriers threaten retention. Sustainable funding, digital innovation, clear career progression, and enhanced professional recognition are urgently needed to support workforce stability and ensure the future of community pharmacy services.