Senior Health Care Support Worker Ward

Senior Health Care Support Worker – Norfolk Ward

Employer: University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust
Location: Norfolk Ward, UHP, Derriford Road, Plymouth, PL6 8DH

Job Summary: The Senior Health Care Support Worker will support the care of acutely unwell patients in a 22‑bedged gastroenterology ward, working under the guidance of registered nurses. The role involves independent patient care, supervision of junior assistants and development of extended skill sets.

• Assist in the delivery of care planned and assessed by Registered Nurses.
• Carry out delegated duties under indirect supervision.
• Supervise junior health care assistants to support their training and development.
• Carry out specific extended skills and assessor training to sign off competencies.
• Support day‑to‑day care for all patients in the clinical area under indirect supervision.
• Contribute to resource management.
• Obtain consent prior to giving care in accordance with Trust policies.
• Competently undertake delegated duties in line with patient care plans.
• Apply knowledge to undertake non‑routine duties and make decisions within area of responsibility.
• Perform a range of limited clinical duties (e.g., BP, O₂ sat, temperature, glucose, sample collection, wound swabs) with minimal/no supervision.
• Participate in patient assessment, providing holistic care and escalating concerns.
• Practice safe care standards following Trust guidelines and policies.
• Maintain a clean work environment in line with infection control and safety policies.
• Facilitate self‑care and independence with patients.
• Promote health education specific to the clinical area and national/local policies.

• Level 3 qualification (e.g., City & Guilds 3 NVQ, BTEC, or equivalent).
• Level 2 functional skills in English and Maths or equivalent.
• Completion of Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support or equivalent experience.
• Demonstrable experience providing care in a healthcare or social setting.
• Ability to work within a multidisciplinary team and manage time effectively.

• Clear communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Accurate documentation of care.
• Understanding of health care policies and procedures.
• Commitment to high‑quality patient care with minimal supervision.
• Basic IT skills (word, email, keyboard).
• Flexibility to work a range of shifts and across wards.
• Calm, caring patient‑oriented attitude.
• Physical capability for standing, moving and handling patients and equipment.
• Willingness to undertake appropriate training within time frames.

• Caring and compassionate nature.
• Self‑motivated and proactive.

Salary: £24,937 – £26,598 per annum.

Contract:

Permanent. Working pattern:
Full‑time. Band: 3.

Disclose and Barring Service check is required. Criminal record checks for overseas applicants are also required as per UK immigration rules.

Applicants are encouraged to apply regardless of gender, race, disability, or any other protected characteristic.

NOTE:

This role is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act. Applicants requiring skilled‑worker sponsorship will be considered accordingly.