GPHC sets standards for reflective account set for 2026

The General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) has announced a significant update to its revalidation framework: from 1 January 2026, pharmacists and pharmacy technicians will be able to base their reflective account on any of the nine standards for pharmacy professionals, rather than the limited selection previously set by the regulator.

Under current requirements, registrants must submit:

• One reflective account
• One peer discussion
• Four CPD records

Until now, the reflective account had to focus on one or more of three standards chosen by the GPhC. The 2026 update removes this restriction, allowing professionals to choose the standard(s) most relevant to their practice. The GPhC says this change will support more meaningful reflection and is part of a broader review of the revalidation framework.

The nine standards set out the expectations for safe, effective, and person-centred care. Each standard is designed to guide professional behaviour and decision-making:

1. Provide person-centred care – Treat people as individuals and respect their needs, preferences, and values.
2. Work in partnership with others – Collaborate effectively with colleagues, patients, and other professionals.
3. Communicate effectively – Use clear, respectful, and appropriate communication in all professional interactions.
4. Maintain, develop and use professional knowledge and skills – Stay up to date and apply knowledge responsibly.
5. Use professional judgement – Make ethical and informed decisions, even in complex situations.
6. Behave in a professional manner – Demonstrate integrity, honesty, and respect at all times.
7. Respect and maintain people’s confidentiality and privacy – Handle personal information with care and discretion.
8. Speak up when there are concerns or things go wrong – Take responsibility and act to protect patient safety.
9. Demonstrate leadership – Take initiative, support others, and contribute to improving services.

This broader scope empowers pharmacy professionals to reflect on aspects of their practice that are most relevant to their role, setting, and experiences. The GPhC encourages registrants to continue reflecting against one or more standards, but now with full autonomy over which ones they choose.

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