Job Description

Support people to live meaningful, active, and fulfilling lives

We’re looking for a compassionate and motivated Healthcare Assistant or Trainee to join our Day Services team, supporting individuals with severe learning disabilities and complex physical health needs.

This role is ideal for someone who genuinely cares about people, enjoys working as part of a team, and wants to make a positive difference every day. Whether you already have care experience or are looking to develop your career through a trainee pathway, you’ll receive support, training, and encouragement every step of the way.

About the role

As part of our Day Services, you’ll help individuals take part in meaningful, person-centred activities that promote independence, wellbeing, and social inclusion.

You’ll work alongside a skilled and dedicated team employed by Tees Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust, delivering holistic care in a supportive and respectful environment.

This role requires Right to Work in the UK. Please note: this post is  eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship

What you’ll be doing

In this role, you will:

• Provide person-centred and holistic care, always respecting individual choice and dignity
• Build positive therapeutic relationships with people who have complex learning disabilities
• Act as an advocate, ensuring each individual’s voice is heard
• Support daily activities both on site and within the local community

Take part in social and recreational activities such as:

• Walks and swimming
• Theatre and cinema visits
• Restaurants and theme parks
• Work collaboratively with colleagues to maintain a calm, safe, and engaging environment
• Care delivery aligns with national standards for learning disability services

Driving & community support

We are looking for someone who:

• Holds a full UK driving licence
• Is willing to undertake further training to drive the unit minibus
• Can support individuals to attend appointments and community outings safely
• Driving standards follow UK transport and safety guidance

About you

You are:

• Caring, patient, and enthusiastic
• Calm, confident, and emotionally resilient
• A clear and compassionate communicator
• Committed to person-centred care and inclusion
• Able to work flexibly as part of a supportive team

Experience & qualifications

Experience

Essential (Qualified post):

• Previous experience as a Band 2/3 HCA or equivalent in a care setting

Trainee post:

• No prior experience required – full training provided

Desirable:

• Experience supporting people with learning disabilities or mental health needs

Qualifications

Qualified post:

• Diploma in Health & Social Care Level 2 (or equivalent)
• Care Certificate
• Literacy and Numeracy Level 2
• Completion of the Trust’s full HCA Framework within probation

Trainee post:

• Diploma in Health & Social Care Level 2 achieved within 2 years
• Care Certificate completed within 12 weeks
• Completion of HCA Framework and key skills within 2 years
• Training aligns with national adult social care standards

Safeguarding & checks

This post is subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act

Overseas applicants may be required to provide criminal record certificates from countries lived in during the last 10 years

About the Trust

Tees Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust provides mental health and learning disability services across County Durham and Darlington, Teesside, North Yorkshire, York and Selby.

We work in partnership with individuals, families, carers, and communities to help people feel safe, understood, believed in, and cared for. We listen, we support recovery, and we never lose sight of the person behind the need.

Our work reflects NHS values and priorities

Employer details

Tees Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust
Kilton View, St Margrets Way, Brotton, TS12 2UE