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Job summary

Main area
Healthcare Assistant
Grade
Band 3
Contract
Permanent
Hours
Full time - 37.3 hours per week (includes Long Days, Weekends, Bank Holidays)
Job ref
390-DoM-SO-3459
Employer
Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust
Employer type
NHS
Site
Southend
Town
Westcliff-on-sea
Salary
£24,937 Per Annum (Pro Rata for Part Time)
Salary period
Yearly
Closing
02/03/2026 23:59

Employer heading

Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust logo

Healthcare Assistant

Band 3

Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust is the only acute hospital provider in the Mid and South Essex Integrated Care System (ICS), which is a system of health and care partners working together for our local population.

Within Mid and South Essex there are 149 GP practices, operating from over 200 sites, forming 27 Primary Care Networks and one Ambulance Trust. There are also three main community and mental health service providers who work together through a community collaborative.

We collaborate with other valuable partners, including three Healthwatch organisations, nine voluntary and community sector organisations and three top tier local authorities, with seven district, borough and city councils, as well as our local universities.

 

Job overview

We are seeking a compassionate, motivated, and patient‑centred Healthcare Assistant to join our Care of the Elderly ward. The post holder will work under the supervision of registered nurses to support the safe, effective, and dignified care of older adults with a range of acute and long‑term health needs.

You will play a vital role in delivering high‑quality personal care, supporting patients with daily living activities, assisting with mobility, monitoring observations, and helping to maintain a calm, safe, and therapeutic ward environment. Building trusting relationships with patients and their families is an essential part of this role, as many of our patients require reassurance, emotional support, and continuity of care.

This role requires someone who embodies our Trust Values: Excellent, Compassionate, and Respectful. While previous experience in care is beneficial, it is not essential, as full training and support will be provided. A genuine interest in caring for older adults, strong communication skills, and a kind, patient approach are key to succeeding in this role.

***Please note we are unable to sponsor this role***

Main duties of the job

The role involves delivering high‑quality, person‑centred care, supporting patients with personal hygiene, mobility, and daily activities while always maintaining their dignity. You will assist with washing, dressing, toileting, eating, and drinking, ensuring individual nutritional and hydration needs are met. The post holder will safely support patient movement using appropriate equipment such as hoists and mobility aids, monitor and record observations, and promptly report any changes to the registered nurse.

A key part of the role is helping to maintain a calm, therapeutic, and safe environment for older adults with a wide range of physical and cognitive needs, including those living with dementia. You will communicate sensitively with patients, families, and the multidisciplinary team, offering reassurance, orientation, and emotional support. The position also includes upholding strict infection‑control standards, maintaining clean and safe bed spaces and equipment, and assisting with admissions, transfers, and discharges to ensure patients feel supported throughout their stay.

Working for our organisation

Our ambition is to deliver excellent local and specialist services, to improve the health and well being of our patients, and provide a vibrant place for staff to develop, innovate and build careers.
 
We aim to make the most of our skills and experiences so we can become the best we can be. As one organisation we will recruit the finest and retain more specialist staff due to more employment opportunities across our Trust.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

Are you looking for an exciting new role using your unique qualities, then we want to hear from you.

For full details about this varied and rewarding role, please see attached job description.

We look forward to your application.

Person specification

Qualifications

Essential criteria
  • Basic literacy and numeracy (often evidenced by GCSEs or equivalent)

Knoweldge and Experience

Essential criteria
  • Completion of the Care Certificate
  • Previous experience in a healthcare or care setting
Desirable criteria
  • NVQ Level 2 in Health and Social Care or willingness to work towards it
  • Previous experience in renal care or haemodialysis
  • Experience in an acute hospital setting

Communication

Essential criteria
  • Good communication (verbal & non-verbal) and interpersonal skills
Desirable criteria
  • Ability to recognize and respond to changes in patient condition

Employer certification / accreditation badges

Trust IDNHS Employers Diversity and Inclusion PartnersApprenticeships logoNo smoking policyMenopause Friendly EmployerArmed Forces Covenant Gold Awardhttps://www.gov.uk/government/publications/kickstart-scheme-employer-resources/kickstart-scheme-brand-guidelinesStonewall Silver 2022Disability confident employerNHS Rainbow badgeNHS Pastoral CareNHS 75th Birthday

Applicant requirements

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (Amendment) (England and Wales) Order 2020 and it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service.

Documents to download

Apply online now

Further details / informal visits contact

Name
Julie Londesborough
Job title
Ward Manager
Email address
[email protected]
Telephone number
0300 44 35659