Help Cut Medicines Waste in West Berkshire

At Healthwatch West Berkshire, we want to make sure local people have the right information to stay healthy and to help our NHS run more efficiently. One area where you can make a real difference is by reducing medicines waste.

Every year, unused medicines cost the NHS around £300 million, this is money that could be spent on improving patient care and services.

Here in West Berkshire, we’re encouraging everyone to play their part in tackling this problem.

What You Can Do

• Check before you order – Look at what you already have at home before requesting more.

• Only order what you need – Don’t tick an item on your repeat prescription if you don’t need it this time.

• Check before you leave the pharmacy – Once medicines have left the pharmacy, they cannot be reused.

• Speak to your pharmacist – They can give you trusted advice if you’re unsure about your medicines.

Make Best Use of the NHS App

The NHS App is a great way to manage your medicines. It allows you to:

• Order repeat prescriptions online.

• Track what you’ve ordered.

• Reduce the risk of stockpiling or waste.

Store and Dispose of Medicines Safely

• Keep medicines safe – Store them securely, out of the reach of children and pets. Avoid leaving them in handbags or cars where they could be found accidentally.

• Dispose responsibly – Return unwanted or expired medicines to your community pharmacy for safe disposal.

  • ❌ Don’t flush them down toilets or sinks – this can harm the environment.

  • ❌ Don’t throw them in the household bin – they could be misused by others.

Want to Know More?

• NHS advice: safely dispose of unwanted medicines

• StayWell BOB Medicines Waste Campaign

  
  

At Healthwatch West Berkshire, we’d love to hear your thoughts. Have you struggled with ordering prescriptions or ended up with too much medicine at home?

Call 01635 886210, or go online and Share your experience with us , your feedback helps us ensure local health services are meeting your needs.