GPhC Warning for Locum Pharmacist After Dishonest Theft and Concealment of Food and Drinks During Boots Shift
Date of Decision: September 15, 2026
Registrant's Role: Pharmacist
Allegations:
- While working as a locum pharmacist and Responsible Pharmacist at a Boots pharmacy in Worthing on 31 December 2023, the registrant removed food and drink items from the store shelves and placed them in a bag.
- The registrant’s actions were alleged to be dishonest because the registrant: concealed the items taken; made no attempt to pay for the items; did not intend to pay for the items; knew that the items could not be taken without payment; and intended to permanently deprive Boots of the items.
Outcome: Warning
GPhC Standards Breached:
- Standard 5 – Pharmacy professionals must use their professional judgement.
- Standard 6 – Pharmacy professionals must behave in a professional manner.
- Standard 8 – Pharmacy professionals must speak up when they have concerns or when things go wrong.
- Standard 9 – Pharmacy professionals must demonstrate leadership.
Case Summary
Allegations
This case concerned a pharmacist working as a locum and acting as the Responsible Pharmacist at a Boots pharmacy in Worthing on 31 December 2023. The registrant had been booked to work from 10:00 to 16:00 on a Sunday. The shift had been booked on a “no break” basis because the pharmacy was intended to remain open throughout the day.
The store manager reviewed CCTV after becoming aware that the registrant had taken a lunch break. The footage showed that, during the break, the registrant took a bottle of water, two smoothies and a bag of crisps from the shop floor and placed the items in a bag. The registrant then went upstairs to the staff area without paying.
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- Full allegations considered by the GPhC/PSNI
- Panel findings and reasoning
- Outcome of the investigation
- Sanctions considered and imposed on the Pharmacist
- Key professional learning points
Original Case Document
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