Major shake-ups are underway at Jhoots pharmacies in Swindon, leaving residents concerned about access to essential healthcare. This situation highlights a concerning trend of pharmacy closures and service disruptions that's affecting communities nationwide.
Two Jhoots pharmacies in Swindon are experiencing significant changes due to a nationwide takeover by Allied Pharmacies. This follows a period of local issues, including unexpected closures and public frustration, mirroring similar problems across the country.
Specifically, the Jhoots Pharmacy on Curie Avenue has been 'temporarily' closed since November 7th, with no confirmed reopening date. This has prompted Old Town Surgery to advise patients via Facebook to nominate a new pharmacy to avoid prescription delays. As of the writing of this article, the pharmacy remains closed with no visible notices.
Meanwhile, the Jhoots Pharmacy on Curie Road is also closed.
But here's where it gets controversial... Allied Pharmacies has taken over the management of 60 Jhoots pharmacies across England, including the Shaw branch in West Swindon, which is currently locked. A sign indicates it will reopen as 'Hearts Pharmacy' on December 1st.
Allied Pharmacies has stated that most of the acquired locations are temporarily closed and that they are committed to restoring essential pharmacy services. They are also addressing outstanding salary arrears for former employees.
Allied Pharmacies acknowledges the crucial role community pharmacies play in public health and wellbeing, and understands the disruption caused by these closures, especially for vulnerable groups. They've called for national-level intervention to address the systemic underfunding of pharmacy services. Allied Pharmacies now controls approximately 210 branches in England and Wales.
And this is the part most people miss... In September 2025, a petition signed by hundreds of people called for improvements at the Shaw branch. Swindon South MP, Heidi Alexander, has also voiced concerns, citing issues like closed doors and patients unable to access medication. After meeting with Jhoots’ CEO, she expressed doubts about the company's understanding of the situation and has demanded urgent action from relevant authorities.
What do you think? Are you concerned about the impact of these pharmacy closures in your community? Do you think national-level intervention is necessary to address these issues? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
