The First Minister announced today that from the end of next week, face coverings in shops will be made compulsory. The two-metre social distancing rule will also remain applicable.

In line with this guidance, our customers and patients will be required to wear a face mask upon entering any of our pharmacies from Friday 10th July 2020.

This change in legislation does however allow for exemptions in specific cases, including if the person visiting our pharmacy has a disability or condition that means they cannot put on, wear or remove a face covering.

More information will follow shortly but we would encourage the public to prepare for this change in our branches and would like to thank you in advance for your support. It is crucial we all continue to follow the government guidelines in order to best protect ourselves and others.

Please do not be put off visiting your local community pharmacy for treatment, advice and medicines. All of our branches are open and our teams are on hand to help.

Don't worry if you forget your face mask

We have stock of face masks (including reusable brands) that can be purchased in the event you forget your own. Please alert a member of our team for assistance.

Telephone consultations

Whether you are shielding or simply wish to limit your exposure and would prefer a telephone consultation with one of our pharmacists, please contact your local Lindsay & Gilmour via our app or by phone. We are also happy to arrange delivery of essentials, over the counter items and prescriptions. Please ask your pharmacist for more information.

Think ‘Pharmacy First’

You know we are medicine experts but did you know that we can help with clinical advice and treatment for minor illnesses? Most of our pharmacies are open until late and at the weekend, providing access to a healthcare professional without the need for an appointment.

Our pharmacies have been designed to include a safe and private space so our patients and customers can benefit from same-day consultations with our specially trained pharmacists.

Our consultation rooms adhere to social distancing rules and we are very happy to see patients as long as they are wearing a mask. Our staff will of course be wearing full PPE.

Video consultations

We are also delighted to confirm that a number of our pharmacies are now equipped with technology to support video consultations. This will benefit customers and patients who would prefer not to, or are unable to meet with a pharmacist in person. In the coming weeks, this service is expected to be available in all of our 31 branches across Central Scotland, Fife and The Borders.

For all the latest coronavirus guidance from NHS Scotland and The Scottish Government visit NHS Inform.

For more information about face coverings please visit the government website or ask a member of our team.