Pharmacy Assistant(UK Visa Sponsorship)

Job Description

Role Overview

Doncaster & Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust is seeking motivated and reliable individuals to join its busy, fully automated Pharmacy Department as Pharmacy Assistants. This role offers an excellent entry point into hospital pharmacy services, with structured training and clear opportunities to build skills within a supportive team environment.

Successful candidates will contribute to the safe and timely supply of medicines across hospital wards and departments while developing professional knowledge through recognised pharmacy qualifications.

Purpose of the Role

• Support the efficient distribution and dispensing of medicines across clinical areas.
• Assist pharmacists and pharmacy technicians in maintaining safe medication practices.
• Ensure patients and clinical teams receive medicines promptly and accurately.
• Develop professional competence through formal pharmacy training programmes.

Working Pattern

This role operates on a rota basis and includes:

• Core hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00am–5:30pm
• Late shift: 12:00pm–8:30pm (weekdays)
• Weekend shifts: Saturday and Sunday, 9:00am–5:30pm
• Bank Holiday rota participation
• When working in aseptic services, some shifts may begin as early as 8:00am
• Occasional rotation to Bassetlaw Hospital Pharmacy may be required

Key Responsibilities

Medicines Supply & Distribution

• Prepare and supply stock medicines to wards and clinical departments.
• Assist with dispensing medications for inpatient and ward use.
• Deliver medicines safely and efficiently across hospital areas.
• Support stock control and ensure medicines are stored appropriately.

Aseptic & Technical Support

• Assist with aseptic dispensing activities following training.
• Maintain high standards of cleanliness, accuracy and safety within pharmacy environments.
• Follow procedures designed to reduce medication errors and improve patient safety.

Team Contribution

• Work collaboratively with pharmacists, technicians and ward teams.
• Participate in rotational duties across pharmacy services.
• Maintain accurate records and follow standard operating procedures.
• Contribute to a positive, patient-focused working culture.

Training & Development

Candidates without prior pharmacy qualifications will be supported to complete:

• BTEC Level 2 in Pharmaceutical Science
• NVQ Level 2 in Pharmacy Service Skills
• Applicants who already hold equivalent qualifications are welcome to apply and must provide certificates before interview.
• Candidates with international qualifications must provide a Statement of Comparability confirming UK equivalence.

Essential Requirements

• GCSEs (or equivalent) in Science, English Language and Maths at Grade C/4 or above
• Good numeracy and literacy skills
• Basic keyboard and IT skills
• Willingness to undertake training and complete required qualifications
• Ability to work flexibly across shifts and locations

Desirable Criteria

• Previous experience in hospital or community pharmacy
• BTEC Level 2 Pharmaceutical Science or equivalent
• NVQ Level 2 Pharmacy Service Skills
• Additional IT qualifications such as ECDL
• More than one science qualification at GCSE level

About the Trust

Doncaster & Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust is a major acute provider serving over 440,000 people across multiple sites. The organisation promotes compassionate care through its “DBTH Way” values and supports flexible working where service delivery allows.

Employees benefit from:

• NHS Pension Scheme
• Generous annual leave
• Ongoing learning and career development
• Health and wellbeing support
• Salary sacrifice schemes and staff discounts

Compliance & Pre-Employment Checks

• Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check required
• Original qualification certificates must be presented if shortlisted
• Overseas qualifications must include a Statement of Comparability
• This role is not eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship under current regulations for Band 2–3 entry roles

Helpful Guidance & Official Information

• Check if you need permission to work in the UK
• Skilled Worker visa eligibility and requirements
• Information on UK visa sponsorship and Certificates of Sponsorship
• Guidance on criminal record checks for healthcare roles
• Comparing overseas qualifications with UK standards (ENIC)

Why Apply?

This role is ideal for someone looking to begin or develop a career in hospital pharmacy. You will gain hands-on experience in a modern, automated department while completing recognised qualifications and contributing directly to patient care by ensuring medicines are supplied safely and efficiently across the hospital.