Gas meter Log

Hi I am trying to create a log of gas meter readings in home assistant. the process I would like is:

Scan and nfc tag by the meter to start the process
Open an input box in Home assistant to enter meter reading
Store this in home assistant in a way that can be displayed in Lovelace

I think I know how to do everything other than step 2 - getting the user input - any one had any experience with this?

My though is to create the automation in Node Red - creating the automation is not the issue, but I can not see how to run it through the Home assistant UI

Thanks in advance for any help