Job Description
Job Summary
We are looking for a highly motivated and enthusiastic Health Care Assistant to join our Intensive Care Unit (ICU) team. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals who are eager to develop their knowledge and experience in a critical care environment.
As a Health Care Assistant, you will work under the supervision of registered healthcare professionals to provide high-quality, patient-centered care. Your role will include supporting personal care, carrying out routine clinical tasks, and helping ensure the smooth running of the unit.
You will also be responsible for monitoring patients’ vital signs, recording observations such as blood pressure and glucose levels, and assisting with equipment and stock maintenance.
Important Information – Visa Sponsorship
Due to changes in UK immigration policy (effective from 9 April 2025), the minimum salary threshold for sponsorship under the Health and Care Worker Visa has increased from £23,200 (£11.90/hour) to £25,000 (£12.82/hour).
As per Agenda for Change, the starting salary for Band 3 roles from 1 April 2025 is £24,937, which is below the new sponsorship threshold. This means candidates new to the NHS are not eligible for visa sponsorship for this role. Please refer to the NHS Employers website for more information on terms and conditions.
Main Duties and Responsibilities
Support registered nursing staff in delivering excellent, compassionate, and safe patient care
Provide personal care and assist with daily living activities
Accurately record and report patients’ vital signs and clinical observations
Assist with stock control and equipment management
Communicate effectively with patients, families, and the healthcare team
Support service delivery by maintaining a clean and safe environment
Work flexibly, including unsociable hours, to meet the needs of the unit
Support health and wellbeing initiatives and activities for patients and staff
Assist with the use of medical technology for monitoring and treatment
Take responsibility for your own learning and development, supporting others where appropriate
About Us – Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust
The Northern Care Alliance (NCA) NHS Foundation Trust provides hospital and community care services across Bury, Rochdale, Oldham, and Salford, serving over one million people.
With a workforce of over 20,000 colleagues, we are committed to delivering high standards of care and working collaboratively with local partners. Our values — Care, Appreciate, and Inspire — shape how we support our patients and each other.
In return, we offer:
A purposeful, rewarding role
Career development opportunities across a large, diverse organisation
Excellent benefits including generous annual leave, flexible working, and health and wellbeing support
For more information about our Trust, please visit: https://careers.northerncarealliance.nhs.uk
Person Specification
Qualifications – Essential:
NVQ Level 3 in Healthcare, or Level 3 Senior Healthcare Support Worker Apprenticeship (or equivalent experience)
Care Certificate
GCSE English and Maths (Grades D–G or equivalent – Level 1 Literacy and Numeracy)
Experience – Essential:
Previous experience working in health or social care as a support worker
Experience working as part of a team
Desirable:
Experience supporting other staff or students
Willingness to engage in ongoing professional development (CPD)
Skills – Essential:
Effective communication (written and verbal)
Basic IT skills
Good organisational abilities
Additional Requirements
This role is subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check due to the nature of work with vulnerable individuals
If applying from overseas and requiring a Skilled Worker Visa, please note sponsorship eligibility is dependent on salary threshold
If applicable, you may be required to provide a criminal record certificate from countries lived in for 12 months or more within the last 10 years (as per UK immigration rules)
For more information, visit the UK Visas and Immigration website.