Client SMS Templates: Using the [Service] Tag

Nightingale now includes a new [Service] merge tag for Client SMS templates, so your SMS messages can identify which service or funding line a shift relates to.

Why use the [Service] tag?

Many organisations deliver more than one service or funding line for the same client. Previously, Client SMS templates could include details such as the client name, staff member, date, time, and location, but they could not identify which service the shift related to. This could result in generic SMS messages and create confusion for clients receiving multiple types of support.

By adding the [Service] tag, SMS messages can now provide clearer context about the appointment being referenced.

How to use the new tag

Add [Service] to your Client SMS template wherever you want the service information to appear in the message. This tag is listed alongside the existing SMS template tags used to populate values automatically in the message.

Example

In this example, the Calendar Client SMS Template has been updated to include the [Service] tag:

Client Abhijeeet Kumar has a rostered service using the funding item "CHSP Individual Social Support: Accompanied Activities" scheduled for 16/07/2026. 

After the appointment is created, right-click the appointment and select "Send Client SMS Update"

The SMS sent to the client will read:
 

This enhancement helps organisations send more informative SMS updates and makes it easier for clients to understand which service their appointment relates to.