NHSL ; LF Controlled Drug Inspection Support Officer

Controlled Drug Inspection Support Officer

Controlled Drug Governance Team (CDGT) – NHS Lothian Pharmacy & Medicines Service, West Port. This role involves travel across NHS Lothian sites and occasional out‑of‑hours commitment.

NHS Scotland is committed to encouraging equality and diversity among our workforce and eliminating unlawful discrimination. The aim is for our workforce to be truly representative and for each employee to feel respected and able to give their best. NHS Scotland welcomes applications from all sections of society.

As from 1st April 2026, the Agenda for Change full‑time working week will be reducing from 37 to 36 hours per week. Part time hours will be reduced pro‑rata. There will be a corresponding increase in the hourly rate so that pay will not be affected.

We fully support disabled candidates and those with long‑term conditions or who are neurodivergent by making reasonable adjustments to our recruitment policy and practices.

Please note:

we anticipate a high level of interest in this position and may close the vacancy early once a sufficient number of applications are received. Therefore, please make sure you complete and submit your application at an early stage.

To work in the United Kingdom, there is a legal requirement for an individual to demonstrate that they have the relevant permission to work in the country. This permission is, without exception, granted by the UK Visa and Immigration Service.

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Please note:

as this post is part‑time, the salary will be pro‑rata.

You will support the delivery of the Controlled Drug Accountable Officer’s responsibilities by assisting with inspection visits, completing audit documentation and acting as an Authorised Witness for the destruction of Controlled Drugs. You will provide advice and guidance in line with legislation, policy and agreed procedures, and will escalat[e] concerns appropriately to senior colleagues.

This is an operational, governance‑focused role working alongside Controlled Drug Inspection Officers and the senior colleagues to support compliance with legislation, policy and best practice.

• Support formal controlled drug inspection and support visits across NHS Lothian and contracted sites including hospitals, pharmacies, prisons and substance misuse clinics.
• Act as an Authorised Witness for the safe destruction of controlled drugs in line with legislation and agreed procedures.
• Provide advice and guidance to healthcare staff in line with legislation, policy and procedures.
• Support the Controlled Drug Governance Team in responding to incidents or concerns, escalat[e] issues appropriately when required.
• Contribute to audit documentation, maintain governance records and contribute to reports.
• Work collaboratively with a wide range of healthcare professionals, maintaining professionalism, confidentiality and discretion at all times.

You will join a supportive and experienced team with a strong focus on governance, patient safety and professional standards. The role offers a varied workload across different healthcare environments and the opportunity to develop practical experience in medicines legislation and controlled drug governance.

• A varied and impactful workload across diverse clinical environments.
• Opportunities to develop expertise in medicines legislation and governance.
• A chance to contribute to national networks and influence best practice.
• A collaborative team culture with strong leadership and mentorship.

You will be a methodical and organised individual who is comfortable working within procedures in a governance environment.

• A…