An inspirational clinician shortlisted for a Chemist+Druggist Award

A gtd healthcare clinician has been recognised for his outstanding contribution to providing excellent care to refugees across the globe.

Zeshan Rehmani, advanced clinical practitioner and pharmacist in Oldham, was nominated for a Chemist+Druggist Award in recognition of his hard work, passion and commitment to supporting refugees who have been displaced by war and conflict in countries such as Syria, Yemen and Ukraine.

Lynne Barlow, clinical services manager and non-medical prescribing lead, said he is a great addition to the team at Oldham and his fantastic achievements outside of work are an inspiration to us all.

"In May 2022, Zeshan raised more than £1 million for charity by utilising his links within the community pharmacy and providing on-the-ground coverage of humanitarian aid work and its life-saving impact," she said.

"Zeshan opened his new community pharmacy, Manchester Pharmacy and Health Clinic, in June, and also launched The Refugee Wellness Project. This involved the pharmacy welcoming those who have sought refuge in the UK."

After witnessing first-hand the trauma that many refugees carry and also the challenges they face in seeking appropriate mental health support in the UK, he teamed up with the charity Action For Humanity. Together they launched a free mental health service for refugees from the pharmacy’s consultation room to provide one-to-one therapy to help deal with conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder, trauma and anxiety.

Andrea Handley, director of nursing and allied health professionals, said the awards provide the opportunity to celebrate the individual stories of pharmacists and pharmacy staff for going above and beyond for their patients and for the sector.

"We are extremely proud of Zeshan and his brave and courageous efforts including travelling to the Ukrainian border as part of an emergency response team," she said.

His work doesn't stop there. He has also volunteered for an international charity to offer his help, knowledge and expertise. As a community pharmacist, he has also helped vulnerable patients by assessing their conditions, offering advice and dispensing medicine.

The stories Zeshan has encountered are truly heartbreaking. One Syrian woman he spoke to had been widowed, she had witnessed the death of her eldest son, who was sadly killed in an air strike, and another of her sons had been abducted. But thanks to the support of Zeshan's fundraising, the woman was moved from a flimsy tent into a proper house and her remaining children have been enrolled in a school for a fresh start in life.

Zeshan is truly an inspirational clinician, the team at Oldham and gtd healthcare is extremely proud of his remarkable efforts.