Nominations are now open for the Pharmacy In Focus Awards 2026, with the ceremony taking place on Saturday 21st March 2026 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Belfast.
The awards celebrate excellence across community pharmacy, shining a light on individuals and teams delivering innovation, leadership and outstanding patient care across Northern Ireland.
Among the categories returning for 2026 is Pharmacist of the Year, recognising contractor and employee pharmacists working in independent or group pharmacies who can demonstrate innovative and progressive initiatives that highlight the essential role of community pharmacy in healthcare.
Celebrating last year’s Pharmacist of the Year: Stephen Toland
Last year’s winner, Stephen Toland of Murphy’s Chemist in Derry/Londonderry, was recognised for his exceptional contribution to community pharmacy and his commitment to compassionate, forward thinking care.
With a career spanning more than 15 years, Stephen has been described as a pharmacist who goes beyond the counter, combining clinical support, community outreach and leadership to improve patient outcomes. His work has supported a broad range of groups including those experiencing addiction recovery, young mothers and individuals living with severe mental health challenges.
Feedback from participants highlighted the personal impact of Stephen’s approach, with one attendee describing him as “a lifeline”. His projects also demonstrated measurable outcomes, including improved participant health ratings and increased confidence among patients to seek advice from their local pharmacist.
Stephen has also been instrumental in driving innovation through the co development of ConsultTed, a web based app designed to enhance the pharmacy consultation experience, now being piloted across pharmacies in Northern Ireland.
As an Independent Prescriber (IP) with a specialism in cardiovascular health, Stephen has also led blood pressure clinics in collaboration with Riverfront Medical Practice, supporting more proactive care and helping reduce reliance on reactive GP visits.
Submit your nomination now
With the deadline fast approaching, pharmacy teams are being urged to get nominations submitted now and ensure their work is recognised.
Entries close on Friday 30 January 2026, and with only days remaining, this is the time to act.
To support busy teams, nominations can also be completed via an interview style entry option, where a member of the awards team can capture your answers over a call.
Those interested can email info@pharmacyshows.com to arrange this.
Award categories for 2026 include:
Winners will be announced at the Pharmacy In Focus Awards 2026 gala ceremony on Saturday 21st March 2026.