Modern Apprenticeship - Pharmacy Support Worker – Higher Level

NHS National Services Scotland; Scotland; On-site; GBP 28,000 - 31,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent health service in Scotland is seeking a Band 3 Pharmacy Support Worker to support medication management within hospital and primary care environments. This role offers structured training and career development opportunities, ensuring that you contribute directly to high-quality patient care. Responsibilities include managing medicines, educating staff, and supporting patient discharges. The ideal candidate should have a strong commitment to patient-centered care and a willingness to learn. Join a dynamic organization dedicated to excellence in healthcare delivery.

Benefits

Structured training and development

Supportive team environment

Career development opportunities

Qualifications

• Experience in pharmacy support or equivalent role is beneficial.
• Understanding of medications and their appropriate usage.
• Right to work in the UK is mandatory.

Responsibilities

• Support the management of medicines in primary and acute care settings.
• Educate staff on safe medication storage and handling.
• Contribute to the efficient supply of medicines.

Skills

Medicines management

Patient care

Communication

Education

Competency-based qualification (SCQF Level 6)

Job description

Pharmacy Support Worker – Higher Level

NHS Lothian Pharmacy & Medicines Service

Hospital & Primary Care Settings – Edinburgh & Surrounding Areas

Band 3 – 37 Hours

Salary: £28,011 – £30,230

Are you ready to take the next step in your pharmacy career? NHS Lothian is recruiting Band 3 Pharmacy Support Workers to join our expanding teams across hospital (acute) and primary care environments. These roles offer a unique opportunity to contribute to safe, effective, and person‑centred pharmaceutical care across a range of settings including hospital pharmacy departments, inpatient wards, GP practices, and care homes.

About the Role

As a Pharmacy Support Worker, you will play a vital role in supporting medicines management and improving patient outcomes. Depending on your placement, your responsibilities may include:

Primary Care Responsibilities

• Supporting prescribing initiatives in GP practices and care homes.
• Reviewing medication ordering processes and promoting cost‑effective prescribing.
• Ensuring safe storage and handling of medicines.
• Assisting with prescription queries and communicating pharmacy team work plans.

Hospital (Acute) Responsibilities

• Managing ward‑based medicines including ordering, stock rotation, and supply continuity.
• Educating nursing staff on medication storage and supply.
• Supporting prompt patient discharges by ensuring timely medication availability.
• Contributing to dispensary and stores operations including labelling, dispensing, and stock maintenance.

Why Join Us?

NHS Lothian’s Pharmacy & Medicines Service is dedicated to delivering clinically led, person‑centred services to ensure patients receive the best care possible. We are focused on creating an environment where every team member has the opportunity to flourish, develop, and make the best use of their skills.

As one of Scotland’s four teaching boards, NHS Lothian has strategic partnerships with local universities, local authorities, and four integration joint boards, ensuring a strong focus on learning and professional development. Our training sites include major hospitals throughout Lothian as well as primary care settings across Edinburgh and the Lothians. Through this post, you will receive:

• Structured Training & Development: Full training provided, including undertaking a competency‑based qualification (SCQF Level 6) and structured knowledge programme.
• Supportive Team Environment: Work alongside experienced pharmacy professionals in a collaborative setting.
• Career Development: Gain advanced skills through structured training and expand your scope of practice.
• Impactful Work: Contribute to the efficient supply of medicines, directly supporting high‑quality patient care.

Additional Information

• Posts may include evening, weekend, and public holiday commitments.
• PVG Scheme membership may be required.
• Applicants must have the right to work in the UK.

Please note that all Modern Apprenticeship Pharmacy Support Worker posts are not eligible for sponsorship through the skilled worker route.

About NHS Lothian

At NHS Lothian, we are committed to fostering equality, diversity, and inclusion in our workforce. Serving a population of 900,000, we are the second‑largest health system in Scotland and home to one of its four teaching boards. Join a dynamic organisation that values innovation, research, and excellence in healthcare delivery.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

For further information on what is included in the role and the skills/experience we’re looking for, please refer to the job description and person specification. However, we understand that there's only so much a job pack can convey. If you’d like to learn more about this exciting role, the team you’ll be joining, or the opportunities available, we warmly encourage you to get in touch with the hiring manager. This is a great chance to have an informal discussion, ask questions, and explore how this role aligns with your career goals.

Contact Details

Maree Lock, Senior Pharmacy Technician (📞 0131 537 1229) Education, Research and Development Team
[e-mail]

Susan Menzies, Lead Pharmacy Technician (📞 0131 537 1229) Education, Research and Development Team
[e-mail]

Please quote Job Train ref: 235358

Closing Date for Applications: 29th December 20025

Please note – we expect a high volume of applicants for this post and in this instance, the advert may close early, so please don’t delay in applying if you are interested.

You will be required to attend the following dates and sessions: Interviews (In Person) – Week Commencing 12th January (date tbc)