Qualified / Trainee T&O Surgical Care Practitioner(UK Visa Sponsorship)

Job Description

Overview of the Role

University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust is seeking a committed and enthusiastic Qualified or Trainee Surgical Care Practitioner (SCP) to join the Trauma & Orthopaedics (T&O) team. This position offers a valuable opportunity to advance your surgical career within a supportive, forward-thinking environment.

This post is eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship, provided applicants meet all UK Visas & Immigration criteria, including minimum salary and skill-level thresholds.

The Trust currently employs a team of 16 experienced Surgical Care Practitioners across multiple specialties. The successful candidate—whether qualified or trainee—will become a key member of the expanding T&O surgical workforce, working alongside surgeons, junior doctors, SCPs, and wider multidisciplinary teams to deliver safe, modern, and patient-centred care.

For trainee applicants, the Trust fully funds and supports completion of the 3-year MSc in Surgical Practice at Edge Hill University.

What You’ll Be Doing

The post-holder will contribute to high-quality surgical care across inpatient, outpatient, and perioperative environments. Responsibilities include:

Clinical Responsibilities

• Participate in daily ward rounds, documenting care plans and supporting junior medical staff
• Assist as first or second surgical assistant during elective and emergency T&O procedures
• Perform wound closure, suturing, haemostasis, and maintain aseptic technique
• Once competent, undertake selected surgical procedures under consultant supervision
• Support pre-operative clinics and run wound management clinics
• Request and follow up diagnostics, ensuring timely review of results
• Contribute to MDT meetings, clinical audits, and continuous service improvement

Leadership, Education & Development

• Provide clinical guidance and specialist advice to colleagues, patients, and families
• Promote a high-quality learning environment, supporting junior staff and students
• Engage in Continuing Professional Development (CPD), research, and evidence-based practice
• Uphold Trust values by promoting compassionate care, teamwork, and inclusive practice

About University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust

UHSussex is proud of its Outstanding for Caring rating from the CQC and is dedicated to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone can succeed. The Trust is a Level 3 Disability Confident Employer and a Veteran Aware organisation.

Staff benefit from:

• Strong staff networks
• A supportive buddy system for new employees
• Opportunities for career growth and postgraduate training

Essential Requirements

• Registered Nurse or Registered Operating Department Practitioner (HCPC/NMC)
• Advanced specialist knowledge at degree level, progressing toward or holding a Master’s qualification in Surgical Care Practice
• Competence in assisting in surgery, including fine motor skills (suturing, catheterisation, wound closure)
• Experience supervising junior staff and contributing to audit/research
• Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusive practice

Desirable Qualifications

• ALS provider
• Non-Medical Prescribing qualification
• Recognised teaching/mentorship training
• IRMER training for mini C-arm operation

Additional Information

• This role requires an enhanced DBS check due to direct patient contact.
• Applicants must hold current UK professional registration.
• Overseas-qualified nurses requiring initial sponsorship are not eligible for this recruitment round.