Ophthalmology Nurse Practitioner

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Band 7 Oculoplastic Nurse Practitioner to join our expanding Ophthalmology service at Whipps Cross University Hospital. We are seeking a motivated, compassionate and clinically skilled ophthalmic nurse with a passion for delivering high-quality care to patients with a wide range of oculoplastic and adnexal conditions.

In this autonomous role, you will undertake comprehensive oculoplastic assessments, manage independent nurse‑led clinics, formulate and implement management plans, and coordinate care for patients presenting with conditions such as eyelid abnormalities, blepharitis, entropion, ectropion, chalazion, epiphora and other oculoplastic disorders. You will work within agreed protocols and competency frameworks, providing timely clinical assessment, treatment, referral and follow‑up while working collaboratively with the wider multidisciplinary team.

We are looking for an enthusiastic nurse with substantial ophthalmic experience, excellent clinical assessment skills, sound clinical judgement and the ability to work independently within an advanced practice role. Strong communication, leadership and team‑working skills are essential. Non-medical prescribing qualification (V300), or a willingness to work towards this qualification, is desirable.

The postholder will work autonomously as an Ophthalmic Nurse Practitioner within the designated ophthalmic subspecialty, including but not limited to Glaucoma, Cornea, Oculoplastic, Cataract, Eye Casualty and Medical Retina. Working as part of the multidisciplinary team, the postholder will provide high-quality, patient-centred care and contribute to the development and continuous improvement of patient pathways across the designated specialty area.

Key tasks include conducting detailed oculoplastic assessments, managing nurse-led clinics, developing management plans in line with protocols, coordinating referrals and follow‑up, and collaborating closely with ophthalmologists, optometrists and other allied health professionals to deliver safe, high-standard patient care.

• First-level degree (BSc/BA) in Nursing or equivalent relevant professional qualification
• Post‑registration ophthalmic specialist qualification, relevant to glaucoma or closely related subspecialties.
• Evidence of advanced clinical practice development, aligned to Ophthalmic Practitioner Training Level 2 framework
• Evidence of continuing professional development (CPD) relevant to advanced ophthalmology nursing practices.
• Must hold current professional registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC)
• Master's degree or evidence of working towards a Master's-level qualification
• Leadership or management training relevant to advanced clinical practice.
• Independent Non-Medical Prescribing (V300) qualification or evidence of working towards completion

• Post-registration experience working within an ophthalmology service, including delivery of autonomous or extended nursing roles
• Evidence of managing a defined cohort of patients, such as nurse-led or advanced practice clinics.
• Experience of advanced ophthalmic assessment, diagnosis and formulation of management plans within agreed protocols.
• Experience working independently, demonstrating clinical judgement, accountability, and escalation where appropriate
• Evidence of contributing to evidence-based practice within ophthalmology.
• Experience undertaking intravitreal injections within the scope of practice
• Experience working across ophthalmology subspecialties (e.g. glaucoma, cornea, retina, eye casualty).
• Experience managing or supporting clinical rotas, staffing or resource allocation.

• Evidence of working collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team, including ophthalmologists, optometrists, AHPs and nursing colleagues, to deliver safe and effective patient care.
• Experience liaising with external services (e.g. optometrists, GPs, community services) to support patient pathways.

• Evidence of communicating complex clinical information clearly and sensitively to patients, carers, and relatives.
• Evidence of effective communication with multidisciplinary professionals to support diagnosis, treatment decisions, and care planning.
• Ability to manage complaints or difficult conversations in line with Trust policy and professional standards.

• Willingness to undertake further training and development required to meet service needs
• Ability to undertake the duties of the post with or without reasonable adjustments, in line with the Equality Act.

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.