As an ex nurse I am finding it hard to even get interviews. I am at a loss what to do.

A pharmacy assistant provides assistance to registered pharmacists and pharmacy technicians. These individuals may be responsible for a number of tasks related to hospital or community pharmacies but are not able to provide customer advice or fill prescriptions as a technician or pharmacist does. The role has numerous other common titles including dispensing assistant, assistant technical officer, dispenser and health-care assistant
Day-to-day tasks for job holders in this position may include ordering and assembling medical products, coordinating with wholesalers, inventory duties, delivering products, labelling and pre-packing products, and directing enquires to pharmacists and technicians, among other tasks; however, these duties can vary greatly depending on the employer
The position requires good communication skills, outstanding attention to detail and Level 2 NVQ certificate in pharmacy service skills. On-the-job training is generally provided. Many working in this post choose to become a pharmacy technician
The average salary for a pharmacy assistant is £15,000 per annum, though figures can range from £11,000 to around £20,000 per annum.

• Having competent IT abilities.
• Having high attention to details.
• Being able to work with a team.
• Being accurate.
• Having strong ethic.
• Having competent math skills.
• Being able to work under pressure.
• Having interest in healthcare.
• Being able to meet strict deadlines.
• Having good communication abilities.

Pharmacy Assistant jobs require some GCSEs at grade C as a minimum and good standard education. Some employers require specific GCSE grades such as A-C in Science subject, Math, and English. There are companies offering training schemes through apprenticeships as an optional way to obtain background.

Through training courses applicants can work towards a level 2 NVQ Certificate in Pharmacy Service Skills and have an important advantage for job application.