An Otley pharmacy has become one of the first in the UK to offer a new approach to community health in a bid to improve access to healthcare support and information.

Led by pharmacy manager, Kelly Winstanley, the team at Lloyds Pharmacy, Otley, officially opened the new concept last month.

To celebrate the occasion, a ribbon was cut by Mrs Betty Bevan who is a loyal customer of the pharmacy at 35 Kirkgate, Otley.

As part of the transformation, the pharmacy now offers free, enhanced services for a range of conditions including skin health and pain management.

Kelly said: “We are delighted to be one of the pioneers in a project that will do much to raise awareness of healthcare needs at a local level. What we want to do is help people discuss their health problems, offer support on how we can help them and how they can help themselves, all in relaxed surroundings where people can feel more comfortable talking about their concerns.

“With skin conditions, a change in treatment and application techniques can make all the difference, which is why we have developed our skin advice service.

“With effective management, symptoms can be reduced and those with the condition can start to take back control of their life.”

Pain management is another area where the Otley pharmacy team now offers enhanced support. The LloydsPharmacy pain control service has been found to improve 46 per cent of people’s pain after just four weeks of taking the pharmacist’s advice.

“We know many who suffer from long-term health conditions don’t always want to go to their doctor every time they have a question,” added Kelly.

“What we are doing is providing services that complement GPs and other healthcare professionals by offering convenient, one-to-one support in pleasant, modern surroundings.”

To find out more about the advice and support available speak to a member of the pharmacy team or visit skinwithoutcompromise.com.