NHS

Dispenser


PayCompetitive
LocationCambridge/England
Employment typePart-Time

This job is now closed

  • Job Description

      Req#: A1233-25-0003?language=en&page=872&sort=publicationDateDesc

      Job summary

      As a GP dispensary we run differently from a community pharmacy - we have no pharmacist but have an on-site dispensary manager and GP Partners who are responsible for the issuing of prescriptions and running of dispensary.

      Why work in a GP dispensary instead of a community pharmacy?

      • No weekend or evening shifts
      • Long standing stable dispensary team
      • No corporate business managers
      • No Pharmacy First targets to meet
      • Working directly with patients you know, no unknown off the street customers
      • Opportunities for further training
      • Opportunities to help with audit, research and medical student teaching if desired

      We are looking for an NVQ Level 2 qualified dispenser to join our long established team, working up to 34 hours per week over 4 days. Will consider a job share. The ideal candidate would have experience working in a GP Dispensary but suitable support will be provided for the right candidate if you only have community or hospital pharmacy experience.

      Benefits:

      • Company pension
      • Employee discount
      • Health & wellbeing programme
      • On-site parking

      Schedule:

      • Monday to Friday

      Main duties of the job

      To process all relevant prescriptions as authorised by GPs and prescribing nurses where appropriate in accordance with the principles of good practice whilst providing excellent customer service to all patients.

      To provide efficient and accurate dispensing of medication to patients.

      Please see full job description for further details

      About us

      We, at Bottisham Medical Practice, are a friendly, team orientated, GP Practice within the village of Bottisham, a chocolate box village, on the outskirts of Cambridge (with easy access to the A14 and A11) with a stable list size of 6,000 patients.

      What we have is rare, and precious: a brilliant team, a thriving practice and a stable patient list where continuity of care with clinicians is encouraged. Dont just listen to us: look at our patient reviews.https://www.nhs.uk/services/gp-surgery/bottisham-medical-practice/D81055/ratings-and-reviews

      Details

      Date posted

      12 May 2025

      Pay scheme

      Other

      Salary

      £13.30 an hour

      Contract

      Permanent

      Working pattern

      Part-time, Flexible working

      Reference number

      A1233-25-0003

      Job locations

      Tunbridge Lane

      Bottisham

      Cambridge

      CB25 9DU


      Job description

      Job responsibilities

      Job Responsibilities:

      DISPENSING DUTIES

      To ensure that all medicines and appliances dispensed are checked against the prescription and whenever there is doubt about the appropriateness of the item, or about the dose or labelling instructions to check with the authorising doctor or duty doctor

      To adhere to Practice Policies and Procedures (SOPS) for ordering and dispensing medicines

      To dispense and record private prescriptions and their payments

      To endorse all prescription forms as appropriate

      Preparation of Dosette Boxes

      Issue paper prescriptions to non-dispensing patients

      Carry out DRUMS

      Destruction of returned medication and sharps boxes

      DISPENSARY RECEPTION

      To collect all due prescription charges and ensure that the patient declaration on the reverse of the FP10 is duly filled in and signed by the patient.

      To ensure that all monies received or handled on behalf of the Practice are appropriately stored and banked and a record kept of all financial transactions.

      Ensure that the correct medication and prescription is given to the patient, confirming the details shown on the prescription form and the label and confirming the dosage instructions where appropriate (DRUM)

      Advise patients about pre-payment certificates and how to apply for exemption certificates

      Reconcile all monies at the end of each day, ensure adequate change is available

      STOCK/STORAGE

      Place accurate and timely orders with suppliers and accept deliveries of medication, adding them to the computerised stock control records

      To operate efficient stock control appropriate to the needs of the Practice with the objective of ensuring continuity of supply for patients and minimising wastage through out of date stock.

      To ensure that drugs are stored in an appropriate manner in accordance with the accompanying instructions.

      To ensure that refrigerated items are stored at the appropriate temperature and to maintain a temperature control record/logbook.

      To ensure the safe disposal of returned and out-of-date medications

      DISPENSARY ENVIRONMENT

      Ensure all dispensary equipment is kept clean and kept in good working order

      Ensure all areas are kept tidy and filing systems and processes are followed

      Clean work surfaces and shelving on a regular basis

      GENERAL ADMINISTRATION

      In the absence of the dispensary manager take prompt action in response to any drug alert bulletins that may be received from time to time.

      To maintain full and accurate records of all dispensing transactions incorporating the use of computers when available and appropriate.

      To promptly forward all invoices and dispensary related correspondence to the Practice Manager or dispensary manager according to Practice policy.

      To undertake any necessary work as may be required and appropriate to maintain a high standard and efficient dispensing practice.

      Providing cover for annual leave/sickness

      Contributing to staff meetings in a constructive manner with a view to continuing service improvement

      Undertaking other reasonable duties within the framework of the post as directed by the Dispensary Manager

      Additional Duties (experienced dispenser)

      These duties will be carried out in protected time, allocated by the Dispensary Manger on a weekly basis.

      Provide cover for the Dispensary Manager in the day to day running of the dispensary when on annual leave or sick

      Assist the Dispensary Manager with the training of new and trainee dispensers, with Dispensary Manager sign off

      Carry out and participate in audits where appropriate

      Record completed DRUMS

      Be responsible for the Dispensary Delivery Service, phoning for monthly requirements and issuing appropriate prescriptions

      Be responsible for the Drs Emergency Bags and maintaining appropriate records with Dispensary Manager overviewing the process

      Assist Dispensary Manager with the destruction of Controlled Drugs

      Deputise for Responsible Person for wholesale operation ensuring safe operating practices and SOPs adhered to at all times.

      RECORD KEEPING

      Maintain full, accurate, up-to-date electronic records of all dispensing transactions

      Maintain accurate records of controlled drugs

      Maintain comprehensive records of stock and orders

      Confidentiality:

      • In the course of seeking treatment, patients entrust us with, or allow us to gather, sensitive information in relation to their health and other matters. They do so in confidence and have the right to expect that staff will respect their privacy and act appropriately
      • In the performance of the duties outlined in this Job Description, the post-holder may have access to confidential information relating to patients and their carers, Practice staff and other healthcare workers. They may also have access to information relating to the Practice as a business organisation. All such information from any source is to be regarded as strictly confidential
      • Information relating to patients, carers, colleagues, other healthcare workers or the business of the Practice may only be divulged to authorised persons in accordance with the Practice policies and procedures relating to confidentiality and the protection of personal and sensitive data

      Health & Safety:

      You will assist in promoting and maintaining your own and others health, safety and security as defined in the Practice Health & Safety Policy, to include:

      • Using personal security systems within the workplace according to Practice guidelines
      • Identifying the risks involved in work activities and undertaking such activities in a way that manages those risks
      • Making effective use of training to update knowledge and skills
      • Using appropriate infection control procedures, maintaining work areas in a tidy and safe way and free from hazards
      • Reporting potential risks identified
      • Adhering to all aspects of the Health and Safety at Work Act and Regulations and Control Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) regulations, ensuring good hygiene, cleanliness and a safe environment in the dispensary.

      Equality and Diversity:

      You will support the equality, diversity and rights of patients, carers and colleagues, to include:

      • Acting in a way that recognizes the importance of peoples rights, interpreting them in a way that is consistent with Practice procedures and policies, and current legislation
      • Respecting the privacy, dignity, needs and beliefs of patients, carers and colleagues
      • Behaving in a manner which is welcoming to and of the individual, is non-judgmental and respects their circumstances, feelings priorities and rights.

      Personal/Professional Development:

      You will participate in any training programme implemented by the Practice as part of this employment, such training to include:

      • Participation in an annual individual performance review, including taking responsibility for maintaining a record of own personal and/or professional development
      • Taking responsibility for own development, learning and performance and demonstrating skills and activities to others who are undertaking similar work

      Quality:

      You will strive to maintain quality within the Practice, and will:

      • Alert other team members to issues of quality and risk
      • Assess own performance and take accountability for own actions, either directly or under supervision
      • Contribute to the effectiveness of the team by reflecting on own and team activities and making suggestions on ways to improve and enhance the teams performance
      • Work effectively with individuals in other agencies to meet patients needs
      • Effectively manage own time, workload and resources

      Communication:

      You should recognise the importance of effective communication within the team and will strive to:

      • Communicate effectively with other team members to ensure the accurate exchange of information relating to patients and their medication
      • Respond to queries from patients, pharmacies, hospitals, nursing homes etc., whether by face-to-face contact, telephone, e-mail, fax etc.
      • Recognise peoples needs for alternative methods of communication and respond accordingly
      • Attend regular team meetings with dispensary colleagues and other practice staff

      Contribution to the Implementation of Services:

      You will:

      • Apply Practice policies, standards and guidance
      • Discuss with other members of the team how the policies, standards and guidelines will affect own work
      • Participate in audit where appropriate
      • Be prepared to cover the work of colleagues when they are absent through annual leave or illness
      • Be proactive in developing new initiatives in the dispensary

      This job description is neither exhaustive nor exclusive and will be reviewed periodically in conjunction with the post holder. The post holder is required to carry out any duties that may reasonably be requested by the partners, the dispensary manager or the practice manager.

      Job description

      Job responsibilities

      Job Responsibilities:

      DISPENSING DUTIES

      To ensure that all medicines and appliances dispensed are checked against the prescription and whenever there is doubt about the appropriateness of the item, or about the dose or labelling instructions to check with the authorising doctor or duty doctor

      To adhere to Practice Policies and Procedures (SOPS) for ordering and dispensing medicines

      To dispense and record private prescriptions and their payments

      To endorse all prescription forms as appropriate

      Preparation of Dosette Boxes

      Issue paper prescriptions to non-dispensing patients

      Carry out DRUMS

      Destruction of returned medication and sharps boxes

      DISPENSARY RECEPTION

      To collect all due prescription charges and ensure that the patient declaration on the reverse of the FP10 is duly filled in and signed by the patient.

      To ensure that all monies received or handled on behalf of the Practice are appropriately stored and banked and a record kept of all financial transactions.

      Ensure that the correct medication and prescription is given to the patient, confirming the details shown on the prescription form and the label and confirming the dosage instructions where appropriate (DRUM)

      Advise patients about pre-payment certificates and how to apply for exemption certificates

      Reconcile all monies at the end of each day, ensure adequate change is available

      STOCK/STORAGE

      Place accurate and timely orders with suppliers and accept deliveries of medication, adding them to the computerised stock control records

      To operate efficient stock control appropriate to the needs of the Practice with the objective of ensuring continuity of supply for patients and minimising wastage through out of date stock.

      To ensure that drugs are stored in an appropriate manner in accordance with the accompanying instructions.

      To ensure that refrigerated items are stored at the appropriate temperature and to maintain a temperature control record/logbook.

      To ensure the safe disposal of returned and out-of-date medications

      DISPENSARY ENVIRONMENT

      Ensure all dispensary equipment is kept clean and kept in good working order

      Ensure all areas are kept tidy and filing systems and processes are followed

      Clean work surfaces and shelving on a regular basis

      GENERAL ADMINISTRATION

      In the absence of the dispensary manager take prompt action in response to any drug alert bulletins that may be received from time to time.

      To maintain full and accurate records of all dispensing transactions incorporating the use of computers when available and appropriate.

      To promptly forward all invoices and dispensary related correspondence to the Practice Manager or dispensary manager according to Practice policy.

      To undertake any necessary work as may be required and appropriate to maintain a high standard and efficient dispensing practice.

      Providing cover for annual leave/sickness

      Contributing to staff meetings in a constructive manner with a view to continuing service improvement

      Undertaking other reasonable duties within the framework of the post as directed by the Dispensary Manager

      Additional Duties (experienced dispenser)

      These duties will be carried out in protected time, allocated by the Dispensary Manger on a weekly basis.

      Provide cover for the Dispensary Manager in the day to day running of the dispensary when on annual leave or sick

      Assist the Dispensary Manager with the training of new and trainee dispensers, with Dispensary Manager sign off

      Carry out and participate in audits where appropriate

      Record completed DRUMS

      Be responsible for the Dispensary Delivery Service, phoning for monthly requirements and issuing appropriate prescriptions

      Be responsible for the Drs Emergency Bags and maintaining appropriate records with Dispensary Manager overviewing the process

      Assist Dispensary Manager with the destruction of Controlled Drugs

      Deputise for Responsible Person for wholesale operation ensuring safe operating practices and SOPs adhered to at all times.

      RECORD KEEPING

      Maintain full, accurate, up-to-date electronic records of all dispensing transactions

      Maintain accurate records of controlled drugs

      Maintain comprehensive records of stock and orders

      Confidentiality:

      • In the course of seeking treatment, patients entrust us with, or allow us to gather, sensitive information in relation to their health and other matters. They do so in confidence and have the right to expect that staff will respect their privacy and act appropriately
      • In the performance of the duties outlined in this Job Description, the post-holder may have access to confidential information relating to patients and their carers, Practice staff and other healthcare workers. They may also have access to information relating to the Practice as a business organisation. All such information from any source is to be regarded as strictly confidential
      • Information relating to patients, carers, colleagues, other healthcare workers or the business of the Practice may only be divulged to authorised persons in accordance with the Practice policies and procedures relating to confidentiality and the protection of personal and sensitive data

      Health & Safety:

      You will assist in promoting and maintaining your own and others health, safety and security as defined in the Practice Health & Safety Policy, to include:

      • Using personal security systems within the workplace according to Practice guidelines
      • Identifying the risks involved in work activities and undertaking such activities in a way that manages those risks
      • Making effective use of training to update knowledge and skills
      • Using appropriate infection control procedures, maintaining work areas in a tidy and safe way and free from hazards
      • Reporting potential risks identified
      • Adhering to all aspects of the Health and Safety at Work Act and Regulations and Control Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) regulations, ensuring good hygiene, cleanliness and a safe environment in the dispensary.

      Equality and Diversity:

      You will support the equality, diversity and rights of patients, carers and colleagues, to include:

      • Acting in a way that recognizes the importance of peoples rights, interpreting them in a way that is consistent with Practice procedures and policies, and current legislation
      • Respecting the privacy, dignity, needs and beliefs of patients, carers and colleagues
      • Behaving in a manner which is welcoming to and of the individual, is non-judgmental and respects their circumstances, feelings priorities and rights.

      Personal/Professional Development:

      You will participate in any training programme implemented by the Practice as part of this employment, such training to include:

      • Participation in an annual individual performance review, including taking responsibility for maintaining a record of own personal and/or professional development
      • Taking responsibility for own development, learning and performance and demonstrating skills and activities to others who are undertaking similar work

      Quality:

      You will strive to maintain quality within the Practice, and will:

      • Alert other team members to issues of quality and risk
      • Assess own performance and take accountability for own actions, either directly or under supervision
      • Contribute to the effectiveness of the team by reflecting on own and team activities and making suggestions on ways to improve and enhance the teams performance
      • Work effectively with individuals in other agencies to meet patients needs
      • Effectively manage own time, workload and resources

      Communication:

      You should recognise the importance of effective communication within the team and will strive to:

      • Communicate effectively with other team members to ensure the accurate exchange of information relating to patients and their medication
      • Respond to queries from patients, pharmacies, hospitals, nursing homes etc., whether by face-to-face contact, telephone, e-mail, fax etc.
      • Recognise peoples needs for alternative methods of communication and respond accordingly
      • Attend regular team meetings with dispensary colleagues and other practice staff

      Contribution to the Implementation of Services:

      You will:

      • Apply Practice policies, standards and guidance
      • Discuss with other members of the team how the policies, standards and guidelines will affect own work
      • Participate in audit where appropriate
      • Be prepared to cover the work of colleagues when they are absent through annual leave or illness
      • Be proactive in developing new initiatives in the dispensary

      This job description is neither exhaustive nor exclusive and will be reviewed periodically in conjunction with the post holder. The post holder is required to carry out any duties that may reasonably be requested by the partners, the dispensary manager or the practice manager.

      Person Specification

      Experience

      Essential

      • 1 year Dispensary Experience

      Qualifications

      Essential

      • GCSE English and Maths
      • NVQ Level 2 in Dispensing
      Person Specification

      Experience

      Essential

      • 1 year Dispensary Experience

      Qualifications

      Essential

      • GCSE English and Maths
      • NVQ Level 2 in Dispensing

      Disclosure and Barring Service Check

      This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.

      Certificate of Sponsorship

      Applications from job seekers who require current Skilled worker sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications. For further information visit the UK Visas and Immigration website (Opens in a new tab).

      From 6 April 2017, skilled worker applicants, applying for entry clearance into the UK, have had to present a criminal record certificate from each country they have resided continuously or cumulatively for 12 months or more in the past 10 years. Adult dependants (over 18 years old) are also subject to this requirement. Guidance can be found here Criminal records checks for overseas applicants (Opens in a new tab).

      Additional information

      Disclosure and Barring Service Check

      This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.

      Certificate of Sponsorship

      Applications from job seekers who require current Skilled worker sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications. For further information visit the UK Visas and Immigration website (Opens in a new tab).

      From 6 April 2017, skilled worker applicants, applying for entry clearance into the UK, have had to present a criminal record certificate from each country they have resided continuously or cumulatively for 12 months or more in the past 10 years. Adult dependants (over 18 years old) are also subject to this requirement. Guidance can be found here Criminal records checks for overseas applicants (Opens in a new tab).

      Employer details

      Employer name

      Bottisham Medical Practice

      Address

      Tunbridge Lane

      Bottisham

      Cambridge

      CB25 9DU


      Employer's website

      https://www.bottishammedicalpractice.nhs.uk/ (Opens in a new tab)

      Employer details

      Employer name

      Bottisham Medical Practice

      Address

      Tunbridge Lane

      Bottisham

      Cambridge

      CB25 9DU


      Employer's website

      https://www.bottishammedicalpractice.nhs.uk/ (Opens in a new tab)

  • About the company

      National Health Service (NHS) is the umbrella term for the publicly-funded healthcare systems of the United Kingdom (UK). The founding principles were that services should be comprehensive, universal and free at the point of delivery—a health service based on clinical need, not ability to pay. Each service provides a comprehensive range of health services, free at the point of use for people ordinarily resident in the United Kingdom apart from dental treatment and optical care.

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