Band 2/3 - Healthcare Support Worker, Medical/Surgical Wards

West Hertfordshire Hospitals NHS Trust; Watford; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

A regional healthcare provider in Watford seeks dedicated Health Care Support Workers to provide compassionate support within our medical and surgical teams. This role involves providing personal care, fostering patient independence, and participating in a proactive nursing team. Candidates must be prepared to work varied shifts, including nights and weekends, and have a passion for delivering excellent patient care. The ideal person is empathetic and has a commitment to maintaining patient-centered care.

Benefits

Excellent pension scheme

Annual leave allowance

NHS Staff Discounts

Qualifications

• Empathy and commitment to patient care are essential.
• Able to provide personal care while supporting patient independence.
• Willing to work flexible shifts over a 24-hour period.

Responsibilities

• Deliver high-quality care to patients and families.
• Encourage and support patients' independence.
• Participate in the nursing team and deliver compassionate care.

Skills

Compassionate care

Patient support

Team collaboration

Education

Care Certificate qualification

Job description

Overview

A Vacancy at West Hertfordshire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust.

Are you passionate about providing compassionate, high‑quality care? We’re looking for Health Care Support Workers to join our dedicated medical and surgical teams across our hospitals.

Whether you're just beginning your journey in healthcare or bringing valuable experience with you, this is a fantastic opportunity to make a real difference in patients' lives.

If you’re driven by empathy, dignity, and a commitment to excellent patient care, we’d love to hear from you.

You will be required to work 12.5 hour shifts, covering days, nights and weekends (further details below).

As part of the interview process, you will be required to complete a written assessment, and if successful, you will then be allocated an interview slot; both stages will take place during the week commencing 8th December, with interviews scheduled for 12th December.

To find out more about the role of a Healthcare Support Worker, please watch the YouTube video below:

https://youtu.be/1VmQLPrTNQU

Please visit the following website for information about the role of a Healthcare Support Worker:

https://www.healthcareers.nhs.uk/explore-roles/healthcare-support-worker/roles-healthcare-support-worker/healthcare-assistant

Important Information – Please Read

Please note – we are unable to obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship (Work Permit) for this role.

Key Responsibilities

As a Healthcare Support Worker, you will play a vital role within the nursing team, delivering high‑quality care and support to patients and their families.

This role requires someone who consistently puts patients at the heart of everything they do, ensuring compassionate, person‑centred care every day.

You will provide hands‑on personal care while actively encouraging and supporting patients to maintain their independence wherever possible.

With a new hospital planned for Watford and work underway to update theatres at St Albans City Hospital, this is an exciting time to join us.

Working Hours & Shift Pattern

We are recruiting for full‑time positions covering a 24 hour, 7 day a week shift pattern (rotational shifts, with enhanced pay for weekends and nights).

Posts involve working 3 long days/nights per week with 1 week in 4 working a 4 day/night week.

Shifts are 12.5 hours long (this includes an hour allocated for breaks). Shifts start at 7:15 am - 7:45 pm or 7:15 pm - 7:45 am. Shifts will cover 7 days per week, days, nights and Bank Holidays.

We cannot accommodate set shift patterns, day or night only shifts. If you are unable to commit to the working pattern, as detailed above, we would suggest that you apply to join NHS Professionals.

Training & Development

You will be required to complete the ‘Care Certificate’ qualification as part of your on‑going training.

The Care Certificate is an agreed set of standards that define the knowledge, skills and behaviours expected of specific job roles in the health and social care sectors. The qualification is made up of the 15 minimum standards that should be covered if you are 'new to care' and will form part of a robust induction programme.

Once you’ve gained experience in the role, there are excellent development opportunities available within the Trust. These include fully supported and funded pathways such as the Healthcare Support Worker Apprenticeship and the Nursing Associate Programme.

Benefits & Wages

We offer an excellent pension scheme, annual leave allowance and family friendly policies, NHS Staff Discounts and salary sacrifice schemes.

Staff wellbeing and development are a priority at our Trust, as is the role of innovation in improving clinical care, outcomes and patient experience.

Inclusivity & Equal Opportunities

If you have a disability or long‑term health condition and should you require support or guidance please contact [e-mail].

If you are a Service Leaver, Veteran, Military Reserve, Cadet Force Adult Volunteer, or partner/spouse of those serving please tick "Member of the Armed Forces Community" on the application form.

Application & Closing

We reserve the right to close this advert early due to the volume of applicants. Please apply as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

If you do not hear back within 3 weeks of your application, please assume you have been unsuccessful on this occasion.

This advert closes on Sunday 7 Dec 2025.