Charge nurse - Orthopaedics

NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) is one of the largest healthcare systems in the United Kingdom, employing approximately 40,000 staff across a wide range of clinical and non‑clinical professions and roles. We deliver acute hospital, primary, community and mental health services to a population of over 1.15 million people, and to a wider population of 2.2 million when regional and national services are included.

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Charge Nurse to join our busy Orthopaedic Trauma Ward at Glasgow Royal Infirmary. The ward provides acute care for patients with fractures and complex trauma, working within a fast‑paced multidisciplinary environment. The post holder will provide visible leadership, act as nurse in charge, support and develop staff, coordinate patient flow, and contribute to clinical governance and service improvement.

We offer strong MDT support and excellent opportunities for leadership development.

There are 3x permanent posts available: two full‑time posts at 36 hours per week and one full‑time post  hours per week. These roles will be based at Glasgow Royal Infirmary. The shift pattern is rotational (Monday to Sunday).

• Provide clinical leadership, developing innovative ideas to improve effectiveness and efficiency of care and collaboratively setting and measuring standards of care delivery.
• Develop expert practice in all pertinent areas of the ward.
• Assess care needs and develop, implement and evaluate programmes of care for patients to ensure delivery of a high standard of care.
• Demonstrate competency in professional skills and expand those skills to meet the needs of patients.
• Assist the Senior Charge Nurse to facilitate change processes within the area, whether clinical or managerial, to ensure that the ward team fosters innovative practice and meets patient needs.
• In the absence of the Senior Charge Nurse, the post holder will supervise, deploy and develop all staff to ensure efficient management of a rapidly changing and developing nursing service.

• NMC registration
• Significant post‑registration experience in an acute setting
• Proven leadership and excellent communication skills

• Orthopaedic or trauma experience
• Leadership or development qualification

We offer a wide range of supportive policies designed to enhance your employee journey, including a comprehensive Employee Assistance Programme, Cycle to Work Scheme, bursary scheme and extensive learning and development opportunities. As an NHS Scotland employee, you will be entitled to:

• A minimum of 27 days annual leave, increasing with length of service, plus public holidays
• Membership of the NHS Pension Scheme, including life insurance benefits
• Salary Sacrifice Car Benefit Scheme
• Development opportunities including study bursaries, e‑learning and classroom‑based courses
• Enhanced pay for working public holidays
• NHS discounts on a wide range of goods and services
• Confidential employee support and assistance, including counselling and psychological therapies

From 1 April 2026, the Agenda for Change full‑time working week will reduce from 37 hours to 36 hours. Part‑time working hours will be reduced on a pro‑rated basis. A corresponding increase in the hourly rate will apply, ensuring that overall pay remains unchanged.

NHSGGC recognises the importance of work‑life balance and is committed to offering a range of flexible working options where service needs allow. Flexible working will be included as a topic for discussion during the recruitment process. NHSGGC encourages applications from all sections of the community and is proud of its diverse workforce. In addition, NHSGGC is a Forces Friendly Employer, welcoming applications from members of the Armed Forces Community.

Katherine Higson, SCN –  – Katherine.

Higsont