SWAN2/VOIP Phones
Published: 06/06/24
Our colleagues at NHS National Services Scotland (NSS) have written to Independent Pharmacy Contractors to inform them about some issues that have arisen during the switchover to SWAN2.
We are in the process of changing all independent Pharmacies current NHS SWAN connection to our new NHS provider, BT(SWAN2).
We have encountered a few issues whereby Pharmacies are being contacted by their own private broadband provider to inform them that they will need to change their phone line to VOIP which also requires a broadband service.
We have had some sites where the VOIP provider has taken over the NHS fibre line, resulting in the Pharmacy being left with no ePharmacy connection. To rectify that situation a new line needs to be ordered from BT and the estimated turnaround time for this is a couple of weeks.
If you are planning on having VOIP phones installed, and you have already had your 1st line appointment or totally migrated over to the new service please can you make your VOIP provider aware that there is already a fibre line in the premises solely for NHS purposes and this should not be touched and they must install a completely separate line for the VOIP phones.
Your next courier collection is scheduled for Thursday, 8th January 2026. We have produced the following guidelines for your prescription bag submissions.
SSP 086 for Latanoprost/Timolol eye drops is active 19 Dec 2025–6 Feb 2026. Guidance for pharmacists on substitution and patient care.
SSP 085 for Nifedipine 60mg tablets is active from 19 Dec 2025 to 6 Feb 2026. Guidance for pharmacists on substitution and patient care.
Serious Shortage Protocol for nifedipine (Adipine® XL) 30mg MR tablets in effect from 19 Dec 2025 to 6 Feb 2026. Full guidance for pharmacists.
Join Market Street Pharmacy in Haddington as a Pharmacy Technician. Competitive pay, benefits, and flexible hours. Apply by 1 Feb 2026.
Update on December 2025 adjusted prices and January 2026 Scottish Drug Tariff Part 7 publishing. Key dates and contact details included.
This week’s MCR Ready Reckoner has been updated and is now available to download or you can view it via the App.
With rising demand, expanded prescribing services, and ambitious plans for the 2030s, the network needs resources to deliver enhanced care.
Join NES’s free Return to Practice course for pharmacists and pharmacy technicians on 23 January 2026. Refresh skills and build confidence.
UK pharmacy law changes are coming. Learn about new RP and SP roles and key dates, including a major update starting 7 January 2026.
New courier bags are arriving in pharmacies. Store securely and follow updated label process starting 22 January 2026.
Your next courier collection is scheduled for Tuesday, December 16th, 2025. We have produced the following guidelines for your prescription bag submissions.
An exciting opportunity has arisen, we now require a commercially focused and patient orientated relief pharmacist.
T&K Brown Pharmacy are looking for a Dispensary Assistant / Pharmacy Technician
Our colleagues at Strathclyde University are undertaking the following research project
We are currently reviewing future budgets and training capacity requirements for CPS/NES Funded Employee CPIP Training. To do this, we need a clear picture of how many CP employees in the network have not yet completed their training.
Cases of flu are rising at a higher rate than in previous years, with hospitals across Scotland reporting increasing numbers of patients with symptoms of flu.
CEO Matt Barclay reflects on how community pharmacies support Scotland through the busiest month of the year.
This Circular advises Health Boards and community pharmacy contractors that four UK-wide Serious Shortage Protocols (SSPs) for Estradot® (estradiol) transdermal patches,
Pharmacy professionals in NHS Scotland are encouraged to explore an exciting research development opportunity from the Chief Scientist Office (CSO).
CP IP trainees on June 25, Sept 25, and Jan 26 courses, return your CPS funding form ASAP. No action needed if already submitted. Contact enquiries@cps.scot.
CPS is reviewing budgets and training needs. Complete and return the CP IP Training form by January 5, 2026. Contact enquiries@cps.scot for help.
Discover CPS’s 2026 vision to expand pharmacy consultations, boost prescriber access, and improve women’s health services across Scotland.
Support NHS 24’s ‘Powered by People’ campaign this winter. Share resources promoting digital health services as the first point of care.
The community pharmacy network in Scotland already offers up consultations for minor illnesses, usually without the need for an appointment, across all 1,200+ sites as part of the NHS Pharmacy First Scotland service.
Four new items added to Part 7 of the drug tariff for December 2025. Check the latest updates and contact CPS for more information.
Your next courier collection is scheduled for Tuesday, December 2nd, 2025. We have produced the following guidelines for your prescription bag submissions.
Last Thursday the CPS team held a webinar which covered the recent changes to NHS Pharmacy First Scotland remuneration, and gave attendees the opportunity to ask questions of the team.
Head of Services

For New Year the office will be closed on 1st and 2nd January 2026 with normal office hours resuming on Monday, 5th January 2026.