Safe Pharmacy

The Safe Pharmacy Initiative is led by The Irish Pharmacy Union in partnership with Safe Ireland, An Garda Síochána, and the HSE. Life Pharmacies that are participating in this initiative will provide information, contact details, and a safe, private space to those suffering domestic abuse and coercive control. The pharmacy will have access to additional support from An Garda Síochána and Specialist Domestic Violence Services within their local communities.

What is Domestic Abuse?

Physical, sexual, financial, emotional, or psychological abuse against a family member or intimate partner, regardless of their gender or sexuality, is considered domestic abuse.

What is Coercive Control?

The term "coercive control" refers to a pattern of controlling, coercive, and threatening behaviour which can include emotional, physical, financial, and sexual abuse by a current partner, spouse, or former partner.

Why is the Safe Pharmacy initiative needed?

Those who are experiencing domestic abuse and coercive control may find it difficult to reach out for the help they need from the safety of their homes. Often, their phones and movements are closely monitored or limited by the abuser.

How can pharmacies help?

Ireland has pharmacies located throughout the country, making them an accessible place for all. Pharmacy staff are also highly trained, compassionate, and discreet and are trusted core parts of our communities. In addition, pharmacies provide a consultation room, where individuals can voice their concerns in a private setting. Pharmacies participating in this program can also provide a phone service for those wishing to contact a family member or suitable authoritative figure/organisation.

How to identify a Safe Pharmacy?

Life Pharmacies participating in the Safe Pharmacy program will display a purple Safe Pharmacy sticker in their pharmacy window.

Participating Life Pharmacies include:

Armstrong's Life Pharmacy, Arklow, Co. Wicklow
Ardee Life Pharmacy, Ardee, Co. Louth
Brennan's Life Pharmacy, Donabate, Co. Dublin
Colm's Life Pharmacy, Salthill, Co. Galway
Flynn's Life Pharmacy, Ennis, Co. Clare
Hogan's Life Pharmacy, Co. Limerick
Hogan's Life Pharmacy, Dublin City, Co. Dublin
Lismore Park Life Pharmacy, Co. Waterford
Mallow Town Life Pharmacy, Mallow, Co. Cork
PCC Life Pharmacy, Mallow, Co. Cork
Newpark Life Pharmacy, Newpark, Co. Kilkenny
O'Donovan's Life Pharmacy, Ballyphehane, Co. Cork
O'Malley's Life Pharmacy, Dooradoyle, Co. Limerick
Quinn's Life Pharmacy, Ballina, Co. Mayo
Railway View Life Pharmacy, Macroom, Co. Cork
Reen's Life Pharmacy, Millstreet, Co. Cork
Tully's Life Pharmacy, Tullamore, Co. Offaly
Ward's Life Pharmacy, Co. Monaghan

For more information:

For more information on the Safe Pharmacy programme, please visit The Safe Pharmacy Website. On this webpage, you will find informative webinars, resources, contact details, and FAQ’s .