Free emergency contraception for women at high street pharmacies in England

Source: NHS England, 29 October 2025

From today, women in England can access the morning-after pill free of charge from nearly 10,000 high-street pharmacies, without needing a GP appointment or visiting a sexual health clinic. This marks the most significant change to sexual health services since the 1960s, making emergency contraception more accessible and reducing barriers to care. Community pharmacists, trusted and qualified professionals, will offer confidential support and guidance.

This expansion is part of NHS England’s broader initiative to enhance pharmacy services and shift care into communities. Pharmacies now also provide consultations and repeat supplies of oral contraceptives, and offer support for people newly prescribed antidepressants. Adults starting antidepressant treatment can receive advice on medication and lifestyle changes, with the option of follow-up calls.
Pharmacies are increasingly central to NHS care, offering services such as blood pressure checks, smoking cessation support, and treatment for common conditions like UTIs and sore throats—often without needing to see a GP. They also play a key role in vaccination programmes.

Backed by a £617 million funding boost, this initiative aims to ease pressure on GPs and improve access to care. A national awareness campaign is running until January 2026 to highlight the growing role of community pharmacies in everyday healthcare.