Senior Healthcare Assistant - Acute Speciality Medicine

Be among the first applicants.

NHS

London

GBP 30,000 - 32,000

Be among the first applicants.

Today

Job description

Job summary

We are looking for a highly motivated, compassionate, and caring individuals to join our multidisciplinary team at King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust on our Denmark Hill site.

As a Senior HCA, you will be a hugely valuable in supporting our Nursing and Midwifery teams providing care to our patients. Every day will be different, and you will work alongside the rest of the team carrying out a wide range of tasks and assisting with care to support the needs of the patients and their families.

We encourage applications from all backgrounds, because we care for people from all backgrounds and know that a diversity of ideas, experiences and perspectives makes our service better.

We have a range of positions across various specialties within Acute Speciality Medicine. These include AMU, Respiratory, Elderly Care and General Medicine. Please include in your personal statement the area in which you would prefer to be allocated.

Main duties of the job

Day to day, you'll work under the supervision of our registered staff to help:

Wash and dress patients
Monitor and record clinical observations
Undertake a range of clinical skills (following appropriate training and assessment of competence)
Support patients to eat and drink
Help patients move around
Make beds and maintain a clean, safe clinical area
Talk to patients and their families
Manage stock levels for linen and other supplies

The role involves shift work (early shifts, late shifts, long days, nights and weekends) so the ability to work these shifts is essential. However, as an organisation we support flexible working and have both full and part time roles available.

Key Qualifications and skills

Functional Skills Level 2 in Maths and English, or GCSE grade A-C or 4-9, O-level grade A-C or have a NARIC/ENIC which compares the qualification to UK GCSE
Level 3 Senior Healthcare Support Worker apprenticeship or equivalent healthcare qualification such as a NVQ Level 3, a Btec Level 3 or higher
Evidence of completion of the Care Certificate or clear commitment to complete within 3 months of joining the organisation
Evidence of being able to work well with other members of the team including communicating effectively, being kind and considerate, reliable and enthusiastic

Evidence of good customer care skills/working with others in a supportive manner

About us

King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust is one of the UK's largest and busiest teaching Trusts with a turnover of c£1.8 billion, 1.5 million patient contacts a year and more than 15,000 staff based across South East London. The Trust provides a full range of local and specialist services across its five sites. The trust-wide strategy of Strong Roots, Global Reach is our Vision to be BOLD, Brilliant people, Outstanding care, Leaders in Research, Innovation and Education, Diversity, Equality and Inclusion at the heart of everything we do. By being person-centred, digitally-enabled, and focused on sustainability, we aim to take Team King's to another level.

We are at a pivotal point in our history and we require individuals who are ready to join a highly professional team and make a real, lasting difference to our patients and our people.

King's is committed to delivering Sustainable Healthcare for All via our Green Plan. In line with national Greener NHS ambitions, we have set net zero carbon targets of 2040 for our NHS Carbon Footprint and 2045 for our NHS Carbon Footprint Plus. Everyone's contribution is required in order to meet the goals set out in our Green Plan and we encourage all staff to work responsibly, minimising their contributions to the Trust's carbon emissions, waste and pollution wherever possible.

Date posted

24 April 2025

Pay scheme

Agenda for change

Band

Band 3

Salary

£30,039 to £31,088 a year Per Annum Including High Cost Area

Contract

Permanent

Working pattern

Full-time

Reference number

213-HCA-DH-7165418

Job locations

King's College Hospital

Denmark Hill

London

SE5 9RS

Job description Job responsibilities

Main Duties and Responsibilities

Clinical Responsibilities

You will be able to perform the following:

To assist patients with activities of daily living whilst encouraging independence, as appropriate
Demonstrate encourage and assist patients in undertaking therapeutic activities within parameters of agreed care plans and under guidance of registered practitioners
To monitor and record patients clinical observations, escalating appropriately to a registered nurse as required
To assist with patient nutritional needs eating, drinking, menu selection, meal delivery and special diets according to the individual patients needs
To assist in the maintenance of up to date, comprehensive and accurate records in accordance with current legal requirements both written and digital
To assist in the admission and discharge of patients including any necessary risk assessments
To escort patients and families to other departments within the hospital as required
Undertake electrocardiogram (ECG) recording and point of care testing (e.g. blood sugar, urinalysis)
After appropriate training, to assist in the collection of specimens including blood samples (including fixed central lines and established arterial lines specialist areas only)
After appropriate training; insert, secure and remove female catheters; empty drainage bags and accurately measure and record urinary output
After appropriate training assist in the implementation of advanced wound care (e.g. skin closure using adhesive sutures, wound drainage care)
To participate in maintaining standards of hygiene, cleanliness and infection control, reporting problems as appropriate
To ensure that equipment is clean at all times, stored safely when not in use and report faults as appropriate
To assist in setting up and preparing patient areas appropriately to the clinical area (this may include the set up and calibration of devices e.g. ventilators, pumps after appropriate training)
To ensure that stock levels of linen, sterile supplies and stationery are maintained at all times in conjunction with the senior sister/ward receptionist.
To assist in the maintenance and safekeeping of patients property in line with Trust policy
To assist ward staff with general collection/delivery of items necessary to ensure effective operational management of ward/department
To assist in performing the last offices as requested
To ensure that all patients and relatives are welcomed and orientated to the ward environment
To assist with the care of distressed or bereaved relatives
To demonstrate an awareness of the different cultural, ethnic and religious needs
To participate effectively in multidisciplinary case conferences as required

Administrative Responsibilities

To assist with clerical and ward administrative duties, including data management, photocopying, transporting of equipment/data/ paperwork to other departments, booking patient transport, sending referrals and administration of appointments
To provide clear and effective information and communication, both verbally and in writing. Promptly referring enquiries to the relevant person
To maintain confidentiality at all times, in and out of the hospital environment

Education and Training

To be able to identify with support your own development needs, completing a competency document and learning objectives within a specified time frame and as agreed by manager
To ensure own attendance at mandatory study days and training (BLS, manual handling etc.) as required by ward/departmental manager
To update skills and knowledge as required by the Trust
To actively participate in annual individual performance review
Sign off HCAs for Care Certificate
Once assessed as competent in a specific skill to demonstrate those skills to less experienced staff, providing practical training and basic assessments under oversight of senior registered colleagues

Leadership

To adhere to, and work within the National Code of Conduct for clinical support workers at Kings College Hospital
To manage an agreed workload with supervision and support from colleagues and senior staff
To work within and support the multidisciplinary team, contributing ideas toward future developments
To act as a role model and advisor to less experienced staff demonstrating and promoting the Trusts Values and Behaviours
To provide day-to-day supervision and co-ordination of junior staff (e.g. healthcare assistants (band 2), apprentices, work experience) supporting their local induction
Take personal ownership in giving and receiving feedback
To participate in reflection and or clinical supervision sessions as provided
To observe personal and collective responsibility for resource management
To be responsible with others for any specific risk management associated with the post, reporting and taking appropriate actions as necessary

Research and Service Development

Assist with audits, surveys and research and developmental activities as instructed
Provide care to patients taking part in clinical trials as directed by registered healthcare professionals in line with relevant research protocols
To act as a liaison with specialist teams and services as a link practitioner enhancing communication and collaborative working by attending meetings and disseminating relevant information (via face to face teaching and written/digital briefings)

General

The post holder has a general duty of care for their own health, safety and wellbeing and that of work colleagues, visitors and patients within the hospital, in addition to any specific risk management or clinical governance accountabilities associated with this post.
To observe the rules, policies, procedures and standards of Kings College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust together with all relevant statutory and professional obligations.
The post holder will uphold the Trust values Kind, Respectful, Team at all times. The post holder will be aware of the Trust BOLD strategy and know how their role fits within this.
The post holder will wear their uniform correctly, according to Trust policy, attend shift on time and present themselves to others in a professional way in regards to appearance and communication.
To observe and maintain strict confidentiality of personal information relating to patients and staff.
To work within own level of assessed competence and to be responsible, with management support, for their own personal development and to actively contribute to the development of colleagues.
This job description is intended as a guide to the general scope of duties and is not intended to be definitive or restrictive. It is expected that some of the duties will change over time and this description will be subject to review in consultation with the post holder.

Job description Job responsibilities

Main Duties and Responsibilities

Clinical Responsibilities

You will be able to perform the following:

To assist patients with activities of daily living whilst encouraging independence, as appropriate
Demonstrate encourage and assist patients in undertaking therapeutic activities within parameters of agreed care plans and under guidance of registered practitioners
To monitor and record patients clinical observations, escalating appropriately to a registered nurse as required
To assist with patient nutritional needs eating, drinking, menu selection, meal delivery and special diets according to the individual patients needs
To assist in the maintenance of up to date, comprehensive and accurate records in accordance with current legal requirements both written and digital
To assist in the admission and discharge of patients including any necessary risk assessments
To escort patients and families to other departments within the hospital as required
Undertake electrocardiogram (ECG) recording and point of care testing (e.g. blood sugar, urinalysis)
After appropriate training, to assist in the collection of specimens including blood samples (including fixed central lines and established arterial lines specialist areas only)
After appropriate training; insert, secure and remove female catheters; empty drainage bags and accurately measure and record urinary output
After appropriate training assist in the implementation of advanced wound care (e.g. skin closure using adhesive sutures, wound drainage care)
To participate in maintaining standards of hygiene, cleanliness and infection control, reporting problems as appropriate
To ensure that equipment is clean at all times, stored safely when not in use and report faults as appropriate
To assist in setting up and preparing patient areas appropriately to the clinical area (this may include the set up and calibration of devices e.g. ventilators, pumps after appropriate training)
To ensure that stock levels of linen, sterile supplies and stationery are maintained at all times in conjunction with the senior sister/ward receptionist.
To assist in the maintenance and safekeeping of patients property in line with Trust policy
To assist ward staff with general collection/delivery of items necessary to ensure effective operational management of ward/department
To assist in performing the last offices as requested
To ensure that all patients and relatives are welcomed and orientated to the ward environment
To assist with the care of distressed or bereaved relatives
To demonstrate an awareness of the different cultural, ethnic and religious needs
To participate effectively in multidisciplinary case conferences as required

Administrative Responsibilities

To assist with clerical and ward administrative duties, including data management, photocopying, transporting of equipment/data/ paperwork to other departments, booking patient transport, sending referrals and administration of appointments
To provide clear and effective information and communication, both verbally and in writing. Promptly referring enquiries to the relevant person
To maintain confidentiality at all times, in and out of the hospital environment

Education and Training

To be able to identify with support your own development needs, completing a competency document and learning objectives within a specified time frame and as agreed by manager
To ensure own attendance at mandatory study days and training (BLS, manual handling etc.) as required by ward/departmental manager
To update skills and knowledge as required by the Trust
To actively participate in annual individual performance review
Sign off HCAs for Care Certificate
Once assessed as competent in a specific skill to demonstrate those skills to less experienced staff, providing practical training and basic assessments under oversight of senior registered colleagues

Leadership

To adhere to, and work within the National Code of Conduct for clinical support workers at Kings College Hospital
To manage an agreed workload with supervision and support from colleagues and senior staff
To work within and support the multidisciplinary team, contributing ideas toward future developments
To act as a role model and advisor to less experienced staff demonstrating and promoting the Trusts Values and Behaviours
To provide day-to-day supervision and co-ordination of junior staff (e.g. healthcare assistants (band 2), apprentices, work experience) supporting their local induction
Take personal ownership in giving and receiving feedback
To participate in reflection and or clinical supervision sessions as provided
To observe personal and collective responsibility for resource management
To be responsible with others for any specific risk management associated with the post, reporting and taking appropriate actions as necessary

Research and Service Development

Assist with audits, surveys and research and developmental activities as instructed
Provide care to patients taking part in clinical trials as directed by registered healthcare professionals in line with relevant research protocols
To act as a liaison with specialist teams and services as a link practitioner enhancing communication and collaborative working by attending meetings and disseminating relevant information (via face to face teaching and written/digital briefings)

General

The post holder has a general duty of care for their own health, safety and wellbeing and that of work colleagues, visitors and patients within the hospital, in addition to any specific risk management or clinical governance accountabilities associated with this post.
To observe the rules, policies, procedures and standards of Kings College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust together with all relevant statutory and professional obligations.
The post holder will uphold the Trust values Kind, Respectful, Team at all times. The post holder will be aware of the Trust BOLD strategy and know how their role fits within this.
The post holder will wear their uniform correctly, according to Trust policy, attend shift on time and present themselves to others in a professional way in regards to appearance and communication.
To observe and maintain strict confidentiality of personal information relating to patients and staff.
To work within own level of assessed competence and to be responsible, with management support, for their own personal development and to actively contribute to the development of colleagues.
This job description is intended as a guide to the general scope of duties and is not intended to be definitive or restrictive. It is expected that some of the duties will change over time and this description will be subject to review in consultation with the post holder.

Person Specification Education & Skills Essential

Functional Skills Level 2 in Maths and English, or GCSE grade A-C or 4-9, O-level grade A-C or have a NARIC/ENIC which compares the qualification to UK GCSE
Level 3 Senior Healthcare Support Worker apprenticeship or equivalent healthcare qualification such as a NVQ Level 3, a Btec Level 3 or higher
Evidence of completion of the Care Certificate or clear commitment to complete within 3 months of joining the organization
Able to demonstrate excellent customer care skills

Desirable

Significant experience within a care setting/environment

Person Specification Education & Skills Essential

Functional Skills Level 2 in Maths and English, or GCSE grade A-C or 4-9, O-level grade A-C or have a NARIC/ENIC which compares the qualification to UK GCSE
Level 3 Senior Healthcare Support Worker apprenticeship or equivalent healthcare qualification such as a NVQ Level 3, a Btec Level 3 or higher
Evidence of completion of the Care Certificate or clear commitment to complete within 3 months of joining the organization
Able to demonstrate excellent customer care skills

Desirable

Significant experience within a care setting/environment

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.

Certificate of Sponsorship

Applications from job seekers who require current Skilled worker sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications. For further information visit the UK Visas and Immigration website (Opens in a new tab).

From 6 April 2017, skilled worker applicants, applying for entry clearance into the UK, have had to present a criminal record certificate from each country they have resided continuously or cumulatively for 12 months or more in the past 10 years. Adult dependants (over 18 years old) are also subject to this requirement. Guidance can be found here Criminal records checks for overseas applicants (Opens in a new tab).

Additional information Disclosure and Barring Service Check

Certificate of Sponsorship

Employer details Employer name

King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust

Address

King's College Hospital

Denmark Hill

London

SE5 9RS

Employer's website

https://www.kch.nhs.uk/ (Opens in a new tab)

Employer details Employer name

King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust

Address

King's College Hospital

Denmark Hill

London

SE5 9RS

Employer's website

https://www.kch.nhs.uk/ (Opens in a new tab)