The National Pharmacy Association (NPA)’s split from Pharmacy Voice has forced the lobbying group to close.

The organisation’s constitution states that ‘if one member association gives notice to leave, the organisation cannot continue.  It is therefore not possible for PV to continue with the remaining member associations.’

On the topic of its closure, Pharmacy Voice said it ‘will continue with its current work programmes for the time being, while the Board completes a review of the workplans for 2017, so that the best decisions are made for the continuation of the vital work PV has been doing for the future of the sector, not least to take forward the Community Pharmacy Forward View.’

The NPA decided that it would not fund Pharmacy Voice beyond 2017 last December. On that occasion, the group’s chief executive, Rob Darracott said: ‘Naturally, I am disappointed at the decision by one of our member associations to give their notice to withdraw from Pharmacy Voice at the end of 2017.

‘Beyond our ground breaking Parliamentary engagement programme, Pharmacy Voice has led in the development of the sector’s vision for the future.  Beginning with our original 2011 Blueprint, which described what a sustainable, long-term future for community pharmacy looks like, this culminated with the launch this year of the Community Pharmacy Forward View.’

The group has not yet published a press release on its closure on its website, nor is it providing any further details at this time.