Our service is for adults aged 18 and over. We will not knowingly supply medicines to anyone under the age of 18 through our online service. Where we identify or suspect a risk to a child, young person or adult at risk we will act in line with our safeguarding policy and applicable UK legislation.
Our pharmacist's responsibilities
- To recognise indicators of abuse, neglect, exploitation or self-harm — including requests that suggest dependence on or misuse of medicines.
- To act to protect anyone at risk and to share information appropriately, in line with the GPhC's guidance on confidentiality and our duty to safeguard.
- To refuse supply where it would not be safe, and to signpost to appropriate support.
High-risk medicines
Additional safeguards apply to controlled drugs, sedatives/hypnotics (including Z-drugs and benzodiazepines), opioids, gabapentinoids and other medicines liable to misuse or dependence:
- Identity verification before supply.
- Mandatory GP notification, and where appropriate verification of medical history with your GP, before treatment is approved.
- Limited quantities and structured review.
- Direct prescriber contact (phone or video) where clinically indicated.
- Signed-for adult-only delivery.
Mental capacity
We work in line with the Mental Capacity Act 2005. If we have concerns about a person's capacity to consent to treatment, supply will not proceed without appropriate support being in place.
Raising a safeguarding concern
If you are worried about your own safety or someone else's, please contact the relevant service:
- In an emergency, call 999.
- NHS 111 — for urgent but non-emergency advice.
- Samaritans — 116 123 (free, 24/7).
- NSPCC (concerns about a child) — 0808 800 5000.
- Your local authority adult or children's social care safeguarding team.
- To raise a safeguarding concern with us: safeguarding@restwellpharmacy.co.uk.
Our Safeguarding Lead is the Superintendent Pharmacist, Jane Doe MRPharmS.