Individuals with long-term chronic conditions will be offered free consultations with their pharmacist.

As part of the New Medicine Service (NMS), those with medical problems such as asthma, high blood pressure or diabetes will be able to discuss their medication with those in pharmacy jobs at no extra charge.

The service aims to ensure that those with chronic conditions are taking their medicines correctly. Research has shown that up to two-thirds of patients struggle to do this.

Speaking to The Halifax Courier, Royal Pharmaceutical Society spokeswoman Gill Hawksworth explained: "Pharmacists are the experts in medicines available on every local high street. We see people who have difficulty swallowing tablets or experiencing side-effects from medicines on a daily basis.

"The New Medicine Service provides the ideal opportunity to nip these problems in the bud and build patients confidence in their medicines."

According to ukparentslounge.com, those with long-term chronic conditions can set up a consultation schedule by visiting their local pharmacy. Patients will be offered three private consultation sessions over a four-week period. Within these, they will be able discuss issues such as side-effects and lifestyle changes.

It is thought the scheme will save the NHS thousands of pounds by reducing the amount of medicine being wasted by those taking it incorrectly.