• The NHS Pharmacy Contraception Service provides patients with a free, accessible and convenient way to access regular oral contraception, without the need for a GP appointment 
• Pharmacists undertake extensive training in order to deliver the service

Boots now provides the NHS Pharmacy Contraception Service in over 1,250 stores in England, providing convenient access to free regular oral contraception in the form of a progesterone only pill or a combined pill. 

During a private consultation, a specially trained Boots pharmacist will undertake a health assessment and advise on the different contraception pill options that are suitable for the patient. Following the consultation, the pharmacist can provide a new or repeat supply of contraception pill or, if a supply is not appropriate, they can refer the patient to a GP. 

Claire Nevinson, Superintendent Pharmacist at Boots, said: “Expanding access to oral contraception through community pharmacies empowers women to make informed decisions about their reproductive health without needing a GP appointment. Many of our stores are open in the evenings and on weekends*, when GPs are typically closed, so the service allows patients to access contraceptive support at a time that suits them.”  

Andrew Hogan, a Boots Pharmacist providing the service at a Boots store in Durham, added: “It’s great to be able to support our patients in new ways, whilst also alleviating pressure on GP surgeries. Since launching the service in our store, I’ve been able to supply a number of patients with oral contraception. The feedback has been really positive so far and patients like the easy access to confidential consultations with a healthcare professional at a time that fits into women’s busy lives has been very well received.” 

The NHS Pharmacy Contraception Service is a free of charge service available at most Boots pharmacies in England. The service is suitable for patients from when they have started their periods up to age 49 for the combined oral contraception, and age 54 for the progesterone-only pill**. For more information, visit the dedicated the Boots Health Hub.  

*Store opening times can be checked via boots.com 

** Eligibility criteria apply. Subject to availability.