Healthcare Assistant - Palliative Care

Trades Workforce Solutions; Leicester; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

A healthcare staffing agency in England is seeking a compassionate Community Healthcare Assistant (HCA) to provide essential care and support to individuals in their homes. Responsibilities include personal care, assisting with nutrition, and emotional support. Candidates should possess a Level 2 NVQ in Healthcare, full driving licence, and previous healthcare experience. This role demands strong communication skills and a patient-focused approach, alongside a commitment to high-quality care.

Qualifications

• Previous healthcare experience is essential.
• Experience working in a busy public-facing role.
• Confident using computers and electronic record systems.

Responsibilities

• Provide personal care and support to individuals in their homes.
• Assist with food, nutrition, hydration, and mobility.
• Participate in assessments and care planning.

Skills

Strong communication and interpersonal skills

Excellent record-keeping and attention to detail

Ability to use initiative and problem-solve effectively

Compassionate, patient-focused approach

Good time-management and organisational skills

Education

GCSEs (A–C) including English and Maths or relevant experience

NVQ Level 2 in Healthcare or equivalent

Care Certificate

Full Driving Licence

Job description

Community Healthcare Assistant (HCA) – Job Advert

We are seeking a compassionate, dedicated Community Healthcare Assistant (HCA) to join our team in Northampton, providing high-quality care and support to individuals in their own homes. This role is ideal for someone with previous healthcare experience who is committed to delivering safe, person‑centred care.

Key Responsibilities

Practical Care

• Provide personal care including washing, dressing, toileting, and maintaining dignity.

• Support with food, nutrition, hydration, and simple meal preparation.

• Assist with mobility, safety, and positioning, using appropriate risk assessment tools.

• Provide catheter care, stoma care, pressure area support, and simple wound dressings.

• Assist with activities of daily living and ensure a safe, clean environment.

Emotional & Social Support

• Offer emotional and psychological support to patients, families, and carers.

• Communicate sensitively and effectively, tailoring your approach to each individual.

• Provide comfort and reassurance, including support around end‑of‑life care.

Care Planning & Teamwork

• Participate in assessments, care planning, evaluation, and review of care plans.

• Report any changes in a patient’s condition promptly to supervising clinicians.

• Work collaboratively within a multi‑disciplinary team and attend care planning meetings.

• Undertake delegated clinical tasks once appropriate training and competency are achieved.

Record Keeping & Safety

• Maintain accurate written and electronic records.

• Uphold infection control standards and ensure safe handling of equipment, waste, and sharps.

• Ensure all equipment is cleaned, stored, and safe for use.

• Follow all policies relating to health and safety, confidentiality, and safeguarding.

General Duties

• Carry out administrative duties and maintain accurate documentation.

• Support new staff and contribute to maintaining high standards of care.

• Participate in ongoing training, supervision, and professional development.

• Report incidents, concerns, or complaints promptly.

Driving & Home Visit Responsibilities

• Hold a full driving licence and be willing to drive company or service vehicles where required.

• Complete pre‑shift vehicle checks and ensure all clinical bags/equipment are stocked and safe.

• Maintain communication with the base team when visiting patients in the community.

Person Specification

Qualifications

• GCSEs (A–C) or equivalent including English and Maths, or relevant experience.

• NVQ Level 2 in Healthcare or equivalent (essential).

• Care Certificate (desirable).

• Full Driving Licence (essential).

Experience

• Previous healthcare experience (essential).

• Experience working in a busy public‑facing role.

• Confident using computers and electronic record systems.

• Experience in end‑of‑life care (desirable).

Skills

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

• Excellent record‑keeping and attention to detail.

• Ability to use initiative and problem‑solve effectively.

• Compassionate, patient‑focused approach.

• Good time‑management and organisational skills.

• Ability to maintain confidentiality at all times.

Personal Qualities

• A strong team player with a flexible and positive attitude.

• Commitment to delivering high‑quality care.

• Willingness to work unsocial hours including evenings, weekends, and bank holidays.

• Sense of humour and resilience when working in challenging environments.