News & Updates

For she’s a jolly good Fellow

Published On : 18th May, 2023

Director Ali Sparkes has become a Fellow of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society. Being appointed a Fellow is one of the highest honours that can be bestowed upon its Members. Royal Pharmaceutical Society Fellows are members who have attained distinction in their pharmacy career.

Fellows may have made an outstanding contribution to the advancement of pharmaceutical knowledge, science, practice, profession or history of pharmacy, and demonstrably gone above and beyond in their day job.

Every Fellowship is based on a nomination from other members, it demonstrates the esteem in which an individual is held by their peers and are chosen by a distinguished Panel of Fellows.

Fellowship certificates are normally presented at the annual conference or Fellows dinner in London but because Community Pharmacy is a very busy place at the moment Ali was delighted to be presented her certificate by youngest team member Tyla and superintendent pharmacist Elizabeth who may be hatching a future pharmacist- who knows !

Health News & Insights

Health News & Insights

Explore the latest updates, insights and practical advice from The Health Dispensary. Our blog shares pharmacist-led perspectives on treatments, new medications and everyday health topics — helping you make informed decisions about your care, online or in person.

quinoa
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Is Quinoa Good for Weight Loss? Why It’s One of My Favourite Foods for GLP-1 Patients

By Ali Sparkes 29th July, 2026

Real food for healthy weight loss Is Quinoa Good for GLP-1 Weight Loss? Quinoa for GLP-1 weight loss can be a useful addition to smaller, balanced meals. It provides plant protein, fibre and useful nutrients, making it a practical choice when medicines such as Wegovy® or Mounjaro® have reduced your appetite. My simple pharmacy lunch:

Pharmacist listening attentively to a patient during a compassionate healthcare consultation focused on whole-person care.
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The Healing Power of Feeling Heard

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Football stress and nervous system response during a tense World Cup match
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Positive psychology wellbeing intervention developed in a community pharmacy

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Tennis health benefits including fitness, social connection and healthy ageing
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Why Tennis Might Be the Best Sport for Healthy Ageing

By Ali Sparkes 29th June, 2026

Tennis health benefits extend far beyond fitness. Research suggests that tennis may be one of the best sports for healthy ageing, combining cardiovascular exercise, mental stimulation, social connection and enjoyment in a single activity. While many people associate tennis with Wimbledon, strawberries and cream, and the occasional outburst directed at an umpire, the science behind