Health and wellbeing
Women encouraged to visit their local pharmacy for the morning after pill
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Women across Walsall are being encouraged to visit their local pharmacy for the morning after pill (emergency contraception), making it quicker and easier to access the care they need without booking a GP or clinic appointment.
Women can also discuss ongoing contraception with their pharmacist, who can signpost them to the appropriate service if they wish to choose a long-acting form of contraception.
Following the launch of the oral contraception service in March 2025, which allows patients to start or continue taking the contraceptive pill directly from their local pharmacy, access has now been extended to include the morning after pill (emergency hormonal contraception).
Participating pharmacies in Walsall are now offering this expanded service to increase choice, accessibility and confidentiality. The service includes the supply of oral contraception (the pill), either as a first prescription or a continuation, along with a confidential consultation at the pharmacy, free of prescription charges. The morning after pill is now also available as part of this service extension, ensuring that those who need it urgently do not have to wait for a GP appointment.
“ Improving access to contraception is a vital step in supporting women’s health and wellbeing across Walsall. By making emergency contraception available through local pharmacies, we’re removing barriers and offering timely, confidential support when it’s needed most, alongside support for their ongoing contraception needs. This is part of our wider commitment to empower women to make informed choices and to ensure that every stage of life is met with care, dignity and respect. “
“ Pharmacists and pharmacy technicians are trained experts to provide timely, safe, confidential access to both regular and emergency contraception. This helps people avoid delays and ensures better support across the Black Country. “
The morning after pill is most effective the sooner it is taken after unprotected sex and this new service aims to remove barriers to timely access. Pharmacists and pharmacy technicians will also provide information on ongoing contraception options and sexual health services where appropriate.
The new services are part of an NHS England initiative to expand the range of clinical services available in community pharmacies, helping to free up GP appointments while improving timely access to care.
Residents can find participating pharmacies across Walsall offering the emergency contraception on the NHS website.
To find out more about emergency contraception, visit the NHS website.
- Contraception is free and confidential, including for young people under the age of 16. The doctor or nurse will not tell anyone, including parents or carers, unless they think you or someone else is at risk of harm.
- You can also find your nearest pharmacy offering oral contraception (the pill) on the NHS website.
- Walsall residents can get free and confidential advice, testing and further support for their sexual health through Walsall Integrated Sexual Health (WiSH). The service is open to everyone regardless of age, ethnicity, religion, gender or sexuality. To find out more or book an appointment call 01922 270400 or visit the Walsall Sexual Health website.
- Read the full announcement on the NHS Black Country ICB website.
