Lloyds Pharmacy has apologised after a woman was refused emergency contraception at a branch in Brighton because the pharmacist said it went against her personal beliefs. The incident occurred when Siani, 41, who did not want to give her surname, arrived to collect medication she had pre-ordered and paid for online.
The pharmacist, who was the only staff member in the store, told Siani the product was ready but would not dispense it for undisclosed personal reasons. Despite assurances online that she could collect from any outlet, Siani was told to return the next day or travel 10 miles to the nearest open branch in Newhaven.
Siani expressed shock that a large company like Lloyds could discriminate against women by having a lone pharmacist on duty who refuses women's services. She stressed the importance of ensuring women's access to reproductive health services is not obstructed and called on Lloyds to make reasonable accommodations.
Lloyds Pharmacy said it was investigating the incident and admitted there was more the pharmacist could have done. A spokesperson apologised for the distress and frustration caused, adding that the company had reached out to Siani. The spokesperson noted that pharmacists are encouraged to use professional judgment but must follow General Pharmaceutical Council guidelines, which state they should not impose personal values on others.
Mandu Reid, leader of the Women's Equality party, expressed concern, stating that women's reproductive rights are under threat and that individual pharmacists should not dictate these rights. A petition has been launched to prevent pharmacists from refusing to dispense medication based on personal beliefs.
