University Hospital Southampton NHS FT
Healthcare Support Worker Theatres
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Job Overview
University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust is delighted to offer a fantastic opportunity to work with us.
We are looking for Healthcare Support workers to join our Theatres department, working alongside Scrub Nurses, ODP’s and Consultants in a dedicated Theatres team. We are therefore looking for Healthcare Support Workers with care experience. The ideal candidate will be naturally curious and enthusiastic about learning, taking pride in continuously developing their understanding of equipment, technology, and patient 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 theatres HCSW’s go onto complete their Operating Department Practitioner Apprenticeship.
Main duties of the job
As part of our team, a Theatres Healthcare Support Worker, you will work alongside the dedicated Theatres team.
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 20% lower than London and 14 schools rated outstanding by Ofsted.
Detailed Job Description And Main Responsibilities
In this role, your key responsibilities will include:
- Deliver compassionate, person-centred care and support patients with daily living activities.
- Assist with patient transfers, positioning, moving and handling, ensuring safety and comfort.
- Support patients before, during and after procedures, including acting as a chaperone where required.
- Prepare, check, and maintain theatre equipment and the clinical environment.
- Assist with patient monitoring and accurately record care, observations and relevant information.
- Maintain cleanliness, infection prevention standards, and safe disposal of clinical waste.
- Communicate effectively with patients, relatives, and the multidisciplinary team.
- Manage stock, equipment, and housekeeping duties to ensure a safe and efficient clinical area.
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
Person specification
Trust Values
Essential criteria
- 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 and additional specific 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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