Ophthalmology Health Care Support Worker
At The Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust, we are looking for a compassionate Band 3 Healthcare Support Worker to join our busy Eye Unit. Support patients through their eye care journey, help deliver essential treatments, and make a difference. Note: Band 2 until completion or evidence of Care Certification.
Main duties of the job
This role supports the delivery of high-quality, patient‑centred care within the Eye Unit at The Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust. The Band 3 Healthcare Support Worker will assist in providing care to patients attending ophthalmology clinics, diagnostic services, and treatment areas. Working closely with registered nurses, ophthalmologists, and the wider multidisciplinary team, the post holder will contribute to the safe and efficient running of the Eye Unit. The role is key in enhancing patient experience, supporting timely access to eye care services, and ensuring patients receive compassionate care throughout their treatment journey.
About us
The Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust (PAHT) is proud to care for the communities of West Essex, delivering safe, compassionate, and high‑quality services. We are part of the Neighbourhood Wave; a national programme that’s changing how care is delivered by focusing on prevention, early support, and more joined‑up services across health, social care, and the voluntary sector. This means we’re working more closely with local partners to bring care closer to home and support people to live healthier, more independent lives. We’re a supportive and inclusive organisation that values its people. We offer development opportunities, flexible working, and a strong focus on wellbeing. As a Disability Confident and equal opportunities employer, we welcome applicants from all backgrounds and experiences. Join us and help shape the future of care in West Essex.
Job responsibilities
- Provide high standards of compassionate care to patients attending the Eye Unit, many of whom may have visual impairment or anxiety about procedures.
- Assist with ophthalmology‑specific clinical tasks, including visual acuity testing, instillation of eye drops (following training and competency), and preparing patients for procedures such as injections or minor procedures.
- Support clinicians and nurses during diagnostic tests and treatments, ensuring patients are comfortable and informed throughout.
- Prepare and maintain clinical rooms and specialist ophthalmic equipment, ensuring cleanliness and compliance with infection prevention and control standards.
- Monitor and record basic patient observations where required and escalate any concerns appropriately.
- Facilitate smooth patient flow within busy outpatient clinics and treatment areas.
- Communicate effectively and sensitively with patients, carers, and the multidisciplinary team.
- Maintain accurate patient documentation in line with Trust policies and best practice.
- Assist with stock management and ensure clinical areas are well supplied and organised.
- Promote patient dignity, privacy, and independence at all times, upholding the Trust’s values.
- Participate in team meetings, training, and continuous professional development opportunities.
Qualifications
- National care certificate or Level 3 (SCQF 6): City and Guilds 3 or NVQ 3 or BTEC National Diploma
- Level 2 Functional skills in English and Maths, or equivalent
- Completion of Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support (that maps to the Apprenticeship Standard for Senior Health Care Support Worker)
Experience
- Effective and appropriate communication skills both written and verbal
- Able to complete appropriate documentation accurately
- Demonstrate an awareness of healthcare work and policies and procedures
- Committed to providing high quality patient care
- Ability to work with minimum supervision to a high standard
- Ability and willingness to undertake appropriate training within given time frames
- Flexible and adaptable to change, able to work a range of shifts and moving across wards/units dependant on clinical need
- Enthusiasm and commitment to working within the healthcare setting
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.
Employer name
The Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust
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