Women can now get emergency contraception directly from local pharmacies

Women across the North East and North Cumbria can now get emergency contraception straight from their local community pharmacy.

The new free NHS service is available in 97% of community pharmacies across the region - offering a quick, easy and confidential way for women to get care when they need it most.

This follows the launch of the oral contraception pharmacy service, in March 2025, which lets women speak privately with a trained pharmacist to start, or continue, taking the contraceptive pill.

Both pharmacy contraception services are free of charge and help to reduce pressure on GP surgeries and sexual health clinics by freeing up appointments for people with more complex needs.

Dr Alex Kent, GP and medical director, NHS North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board, said: “Pharmacists are highly trained professionals who can now offer fast, safe and confidential access to emergency contraception.

"The pill works best when taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex and this new service makes it easier for women to get the help they need quickly and conveniently.

"Pharmacies already support people with a wide range of everyday health needs and by offering the contraceptive pill and the emergency contraceptive pill too, they’re helping women take greater control of their reproductive health.”

The new pharmacy services are part of a wider NHS England initiative to expand clinical care in community pharmacies, improving access to treatment and freeing up GP appointments.

Pharmacist Pete Horrocks added: “Community pharmacists now play a bigger role than ever in helping people access healthcare.

"Alongside prescribing treatments for common conditions including sore throats, sinusitis, shingles, ear infections, impetigo, infected insect bites and UTIs, the addition of free NHS contraception and emergency contraception services is a big step forward.

"It means women can get fast, confidential help when they need it, and can also discuss longer-term contraception options without needing a GP appointment.”

For more information, or to find a participating pharmacy, visit Find a pharmacy offering the contraceptive pill.