Senior Health Care Assistant (Visa Sponsorship Available)
Job Description
Job Summary
We are seeking a dedicated Senior Health Care Assistant to join our Endoscopy team at University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust (UHSussex).
The post holder will play an essential role in supporting high-quality patient care across our Endoscopy Unit, assisting with a wide range of diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. Working under the supervision of registered nurses and healthcare professionals, you will help deliver safe, compassionate, and patient-centered care to both inpatients and outpatients.
This role qualifies for Visa Sponsorship under the UK Skilled Worker route, provided applicants meet UK Visas & Immigration (UKVI) eligibility criteria, including skill, experience, and salary thresholds. Applicants must evidence at least 2 years of experience in a similar healthcare role to qualify.
Main Duties and Responsibilities
Clinical and Patient Care Duties
Assist in all endoscopy procedure rooms with appropriate training and supervision.
Support patients through all stages of their procedure, ensuring dignity, comfort, and safety.
Work in recovery areas performing enhanced Band 3 responsibilities.
Prepare, clean, and restock Endoscopy equipment and clinical areas.
Support consultants and nurses during endoscopic procedures, including:
Cold biopsy
Airway management during upper and lower endoscopy
Hot and cold snare polypectomy
Argon plasma coagulation setup
Clipping and polyp retrieval (Rothnet)
Assisting in ERCP procedures
Record patient information accurately on clinical systems (Endoscopy Care Pathway, Bluespier, Careflow).
Assist in the safe movement and positioning of patients and equipment.
Ensure patient consent is obtained before any procedure.
Identify individual patient care needs and provide physical, psychological, and emotional support.
Maintain infection control and a high standard of cleanliness in all clinical areas.
Professional and Team Responsibilities
Communicate effectively with all members of the multidisciplinary team.
Attend and contribute to staff meetings.
Demonstrate professionalism and empathy in all patient interactions.
Participate in teaching and supporting students and new healthcare assistants.
Recognize personal limitations and work within the scope of professional competence.
Assist in other hospital areas if required by the Trust.
Stay beyond scheduled hours if patient safety requires.
Uphold Trust values and ensure all safeguarding concerns are reported promptly.
Service Delivery and Development
Take delegated responsibility for specific duties from the Senior Nurse in Charge.
Support quality improvement and service delivery initiatives.
Keep up to date with changes in clinical practice and Trust policies.
Participate in performance appraisals and ongoing professional development.
Person Specification
Qualifications
Essential: Care Certificate or NVQ Level 3 (or equivalent).
Desirable: Minimum 2 years of experience as a Health Care Assistant (HCA).
Experience
Essential: Previous experience in a ward, theatre, or endoscopy setting.
Desirable: Strong understanding of Endoscopy procedures.
Skills and Knowledge
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to deliver safe, compassionate, and effective care.
Strong organizational and time management abilities.
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
Evidence of promoting diversity and inclusion in previous roles.
Commitment to ongoing personal development in equality and inclusion.
Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Check
This role is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975, requiring an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check for any previous criminal convictions.
About University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust
At UHSussex, diversity and inclusion are central to our mission of putting patients first. We value individuality and innovation and are proud to be rated “Outstanding for Caring” by the CQC.
We are a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2) and a Veteran Aware Trust, offering staff support networks, wellbeing programs, and mentoring opportunities.
As a university hospital, we invest heavily in education, research, and professional growth—ensuring you can thrive in your career while making a real difference in patient care.
