Helpful hints for finding your career in the modern NHS
- Use NHS Jobs
NHS Jobs is the online recruitment service for the NHS in England and Wales and most NHS organisations advertise their jobs here. On any day there are thousands of jobs listed on the site. As an applicant, you can search and apply on-line for vacancies that match your own preferences. You can also register with the site and be notified by email when matching vacancies arise.
2. Community-based roles
As more and more healthcare is being delivered in patients' own homes, jobs that had previously been done in a hospital setting are now being done in the community. A community-based career attracts all the same benefits as a hospital-based one.
3. Flexible contracts
Getting a permanent job is not the only way to work in the NHS. A temporary or flexible contract will allow you to gain valuable experience, perhaps with a number of different trusts. Talk to your local trust to see if in-house 'bank' work (in-house agency shift work) is available in your area.
4. NHS Professionals
NHS Professionals is offering programmes, in partnership with NHS organisations, which allow people to translate clinical learning into practice. By joining one of the preceptor programmes you will be able to start your career in the NHS and enjoy the opportunity to develop new skills and work flexibly if you choose.
5. Independent and charitable sectors
An increasing proportion of NHS healthcare is now provided by the independent sector, the charitable sector and social partnerships. Healthcare professionals can work for these providers, with or without NHS experience, but may not receive the same benefits. As in the NHS, a career with the independent sector offers you valuable experience, training and career progression.
6. Healthcare partnerships
Children's services, learning disabilities and social care, amongst other services, are often delivered through partnerships between the NHS and a local authority. Although you may be employed by local government, you would still be using your skills and delivering healthcare to patients.
7. Be the best you can!
Finally, when you are applying for jobs don't forget to read the job description and person specification and make sure you make it obvious to the employer why your education, personal qualities and work experience are relevant to the job they have advertised. Before an interview, prepare answers to some of the more standard questions such as why you want the job, what skills and qualities you will bring to the job and what experience you have that is relevant. And don't forget to smile and be friendly throughout your interview!