Overview

• The NPA poll of 476 pharmacies found 88% reported higher shoplifting rates over the past year, with 87% noting more aggressive behaviour and 22% reporting physical assaults on staff.
• Almost three-quarters of pharmacies said police responses to reported incidents were insufficient, leaving many crimes uninvestigated or without follow-up.
• Faced with enforcement gaps, owners have hired security guards, installed cameras and in some cases personally chased offenders to safeguard their premises.
• The theft of prescription drugs such as strong painkillers and benzodiazepines has intensified, raising fears of addiction and broader health risks in communities.
• The government has pledged to remove effective immunity for thefts under £200, boost neighbourhood patrols and enact shop worker protections, but pharmacy owners report no easing of day-to-day pressures.