Pharmacist steps in to save shop
SHAHID BRINGS NEW NAME AND NEW SERVICES TO HIS LOCAL CHEMIST’S
A PHARMACIST has saved a long-running Littleover chemist from shutting down.
Shahid Hussain took over Jhoots Pharmacy at the start of the month after worries it could close.
Since then, Mr Hussain has carried out renovations to the store to increase its service capacity and the site has also started an extensive programme of flu vaccinations.
The 34-year-old said that saving the chemist, which has now been renamed Littleover Pharmacy, was an opportunity he simply could not turn down.
He said: “I’m Littleover born and bred. I used to come to this chemist when I was younger, and now I live just down the road.
“There’s a real sense of community spirit and I wanted to add to that by taking over this vital store and offering new services for local residents.
“Hopefully we can become an essential part of people’s lives.”
As Mr Hussain is an advanced clinical practitioner, the pharmacy can now offer a walk-in clinic for issues ranging from chest and throat infections to blood pressure and cholesterol checks.
He has also introduced a flu vaccinations programme.
Mr Hussain said: “I’ve heard a lot of people talking about how they’re struggling to be seen by their GP. “During Covid it’s been crucial to offer a service for people who need to be seen by a medical professional, and that’s what we can do.
“If you go to most pharmacies you won’t find an advanced clinical practitioner to hand. There aren’t any others like this in Derbyshire. “Through this new pharmacy and its walk-in services, I’m hoping to help people in the area. “This is especially the case now as the health service is busier than ever.” The takeover of the pharmacy has been welcomed by Littleover ward councillor Lucy Care, who believes it will help to provide essential support for residents in the area.
Cllr Care said: “It is excellent when people invest in local shops, especially key ones like the local pharmacy. “Shahid’s plans to provide additional services for local people are also most welcome when other frontline health services are so stretched.”
I’m Littleover born and bred. I used to come to this chemist when I was younger, and now I live just down the road. Shahid Hussain