University Hospital Southampton NHS FT
Healthcare Support Worker
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Job Overview
University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust is delighted to offer a fantastic opportunity to work with us.
This is a vital role working in the critical care team, supporting critically ill patients and their families. You will work closely with nurses, doctors, and Allied Health Professionals to deliver the highest standards of care in an emotionally challenging environment.
Our Critical Care Departments Include
- General Intensive Care
- Surgical High Dependency
- Neuro Intensive Care
- Cardiac Intensive Care
This vacancy does not meet the Home Office threshold for sponsorship; we require applicants to hold a current right to work in the UK.
Whilst there is no expectation several of our HCSW’s go onto complete their Nursing Degree Apprenticeship.
Main duties of the job
As part of our team, you will play a key role in supporting safe and effective care within our busy critical care environment. We are looking for caring, compassionate, and motivated individuals who thrives in a demanding and meaningful healthcare setting.
At UHS, we value the diverse experience that Healthcare Support Workers can bring from different backgrounds. Previous healthcare experience is desirable but not essential — If you are beginning your healthcare journey or looking to take the next step, we would welcome your interest.
Working for our organisation
As one of the largest acute teaching Trusts in England, we offer learning and development opportunities to help you achieve the career you aspire to. UHS is rated ‘Good’ by the CQC and in the latest national NHS Staff Survey, we were in the top 10 acute trusts for staff engagement and for staff recommending the hospital as a place to work or receive care.
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We support flexible working and will consider requests taking into account the needs of the service. UHS employees are able to access a range of NHS discounts, are entitled to a minimum of 35 days paid holiday (pro rata), and we offer a generous pension scheme.
Southampton is an attractive place to live and work situated on the south coast, with an international airport and direct trains to London. The New Forest National Park and beaches of the Jurassic coast are also right on our doorstep. The city offers living costs 30% lower than London and 17 schools rated outstanding by Ofsted.
Detailed Job Description And Main Responsibilities
In this role, your key responsibilities will include:
- Providing compassionate, person-centred care, supporting patients with personal care, nutrition, and hydration.
- Assisting with patient moving and handling, ensuring comfort, safety, and dignity at all times.
- Monitoring and recording patient information, including fluid balance and nutrition documentation.
- Maintaining accurate patient records and ensure confidentiality is always upheld.
- Preparing and maintaining a safe, clean, and well-stocked clinical environment.
- Using clinical equipment safely and effectively following training and competency assessment.
- Communicating professionally with patients, families, and the multidisciplinary team.
- Support a positive team culture by assisting new staff and maintaining essential HCSW competencies.
You will begin with a comprehensive one-week induction program before completing a structured development pathway.
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- Monthly development study days over five months.
- Workplace learning and competency development.
- Enhanced clinical skills training appropriate to your area
Our Supportive Induction Programme Will Help You
- Complete your Care Certificate
- Settle into your new role with confidence
- Become a valued member of the team
- Develop the skills and knowledge needed for future career progression
A Detailed Job Description And Person Specification Is Attached
Person specification
Trust Values
- Patient First
- Always Improving
- Working Together
Qualifications, Knowledge And Experience
Essential criteria
- Completed care certificate or ability to complete within 6 months of appointment
- Completed secondary education
- Ability to move and handle patients and equipment
- Evidence of empathy, patience and dependability
- Ability to deal with a range of difficult situations
- Be able to take instruction / directions and work within the confines of the role
- Ability to cope with fluctuating demands and pressures of the role
- Requirement to be aware of and adhere to the care certificate standards; https://www.hee.nhs.uk/our-work/care-certificate
- Capable of completing core HCSW competencies related to area of work within 12 months of appointment
Desirable criteria
- Previous experience in: Acute hospital setting. HCA experience. Volunteer sector Teaching Assistant Nursing home carer Experience in a caring role
- Understanding of acute hospital environment and the role of HCA
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