Location: Ashford Hospital, Ashford, Surrey
Type: Permanent, Full-Time
Salary: NHS Band 3 Scale (Progression opportunities available)
About Ashford & St. Peter’s Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Ashford & St. Peter’s Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust serves a diverse population of over 410,000 residents across North-West Surrey and parts of Hounslow. With a skilled workforce of more than 3,700 professionals, the Trust operates across two main sites—Ashford Hospital and St. Peter’s Hospital in Chertsey. The Trust is expanding its theatre facilities at Ashford Hospital, with the goal of establishing a state-of-the-art elective surgery centre dedicated to delivering planned surgical procedures in a highly specialized environment.
As the Trust continues to grow, it is committed to nurturing the next generation of healthcare professionals by creating a dynamic environment focused on learning and development. For those with a passion for patient care, this role presents an exciting opportunity to join an innovative team at the forefront of surgical healthcare.
Benefits
Ashford & St. Peter’s Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust offers a comprehensive range of benefits to support the professional and personal growth of its staff:
- Competitive NHS Pension Scheme: A reliable pension plan that provides financial security for your future.
- Annual Leave Entitlement: Generous leave policy to promote a healthy work-life balance.
- On-site Nurseries: Access to childcare facilities to support working parents.
- On-site Staff Cafés: Enjoy convenient meal options while at work.
- On-site Parking: Parking facilities available for staff at both hospital sites.
- Career Development Support: Opportunities for continuous professional development, including training and career advancement pathways.
- Salary Sacrifice Schemes: Access to schemes such as wage stream, lease cars, Cycle to Work, and home electronics purchase options.
Requirements
This role requires individuals who are dedicated, compassionate, and eager to contribute to the patient care team within a theatre environment. Essential qualifications and skills include:
- Functional level of English and Math proficiency
- Previous customer service experience or experience working with people
- Effective communication skills and the ability to work well within a team
- Basic IT and computer skills for documentation and record-keeping
- Empathy, compassion, and a caring nature
- Understanding of the role of a Healthcare Support Worker within a hospital setting
- Flexibility to meet patient and service needs, including shift work within a 7-day schedule
Desirable but not required: Prior experience as a healthcare support worker, and familiarity with the Trust’s vision, values, and behaviours.
Salary Details
This position falls within the NHS Band 3 salary range, with progression opportunities available as skills and competencies are developed. The successful candidate will receive structured training and support to advance in their role within the theatre team.
About the Role
The Assistant Theatre Practitioner will work closely with the Theatre Team Leader and other healthcare professionals to deliver high-quality, fundamental care to patients in the theatre and recovery areas. The role includes completion of a comprehensive Theatre Competency Pack and the Care Certificate to prepare for progression to a Band 3 Healthcare Support Worker. Working primarily within the Main Theatre, Recovery, and Anaesthetics areas, the role is integral to supporting theatre operations at Ashford Hospital, the Trust’s emerging elective surgery centre.
Main Duties of the Job
The Assistant Theatre Practitioner will be responsible for:
- Performing assigned patient care tasks under the guidance of the Theatre Team Leader, ensuring patient dignity and privacy are upheld at all times.
- Providing essential care and support to patients, including assistance with personal hygiene and skin care.
- Helping to maintain skin integrity by assisting patients with movement and repositioning, using proper handling techniques and equipment to prevent injuries.
- Carrying out various ad-hoc tasks as required by qualified staff, including patient transport and theatre cleaning.
- Collaborating effectively with the Main Theatre, Recovery, and Anaesthetics teams, ensuring seamless communication.
- Ensuring accurate documentation, including the Surrey Safe Care Peri-operative tracking, Integrated Care Pathway (ICP), and WHO Checklists.
- Maintaining a clean and organized theatre environment, including equipment rooms and storerooms, and ensuring patient areas are sanitized according to infection prevention guidelines.
Working for Ashford & St. Peter’s Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Ashford & St. Peter’s Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust is dedicated to supporting the professional growth of its employees. By joining the Trust, team members become part of a forward-thinking healthcare organization that values innovation, inclusivity, and community impact. The Trust’s focus on continuous improvement in patient care extends to creating an environment that fosters learning and professional development, ensuring that all staff have the opportunity to grow and thrive.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Ashford & St. Peter’s Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust is an equal opportunity employer. They welcome and encourage applications from all individuals, regardless of background, ensuring a diverse, inclusive, and respectful workplace environment. The Trust is committed to promoting a culture of equity and inclusivity across all levels of the organization.
Apply Now
To apply for the Assistant Theatre Practitioner position at Ashford & St. Peter’s Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, please submit your application via the NHS jobs portal. Due to high demand, the application process may close early, so interested candidates are encouraged to apply promptly.
