Job Description
Start Your Career in Specialist Neonatal Nursing
Somerset NHS Foundation Trust is looking for a compassionate and motivated Staff Nurse to join its Neonatal Unit team.
This is a rewarding opportunity to work with premature and unwell newborn babies and to support their families through one of the most emotional and critical periods of their lives.
Whether you are newly qualified, returning to clinical practice, or seeking to specialise in neonatal care, this role provides structured development, hands-on learning, and strong multidisciplinary support.
About the Neonatal Unit Role
Working within the neonatal service, you will provide specialist nursing care to infants requiring intensive, high dependency, or special care support.
You will be part of a skilled multidisciplinary team delivering safe, family-centred care to ensure the best possible outcomes for babies and their families.
Key Responsibilities
Your day-to-day responsibilities will include:
- Delivering high-quality, evidence-based neonatal nursing care
Monitoring and assessing the clinical condition of newborn infants
Responding promptly to changes in a baby’s health status
Operating and maintaining neonatal medical equipment safely
Developing and implementing individualised care plans
Providing emotional support, education, and reassurance to families
Helping parents build confidence in caring for their baby
Supporting discharge planning and parent education programmes
Assisting in neonatal emergencies, including resuscitation and stabilisation (with training)
Participating in safeguarding and clinical governance processes
Maintaining accurate and timely clinical documentation
Supporting infection prevention and control standards
Supervising students and junior staff where appropriate
Family-Centred Care Approach
A key part of this role is working closely with parents and families. You will:
- Communicate sensitive information with empathy and clarity
Support bonding between parents and their newborns
Provide guidance on infant care, feeding, and development
Encourage parental involvement in care decisions
Support families during difficult or complex clinical situations
Candidate Requirements
Essential Requirements
Applicants must be:
- A registered nurse (NMC Part 1, 7 or 10 registered)
Knowledgeable in key NHS policies including:
Clinical Governance
- Infection Prevention and Control
Risk Management
Safeguarding Children
Data Protection and Confidentiality
COSHH and manual handling standards
Familiar with evidence-based neonatal nursing practice
Committed to delivering safe and compassionate care
Desirable Experience
- Previous experience working with babies, infants, or families
Exposure to neonatal, paediatric, or maternity settings
Understanding of family-centred care environments
Training, Development & Support
The Trust offers strong support for career development, including:
- Structured neonatal training pathways
Ongoing clinical supervision and mentorship
Opportunities for continuing professional development (CPD)
Supportive multidisciplinary learning environment
Experience in high-acuity neonatal care settings
Important Compliance & Eligibility Information
This role requires compliance with UK healthcare employment standards, including:
- Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) clearance
Adherence to safeguarding and child protection regulations
Registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC)
Official guidance resources:
- NHS Careers – Neonatal Nursing Roles
Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) Registration
UK Right to Work Guidance
Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Information
Safeguarding Children Guidance (UK Gov)
Why Join Somerset NHS Foundation Trust?
Working within this Trust offers:
- A supportive and inclusive working culture
Strong focus on staff wellbeing and development
NHS pension scheme and employment benefits
Opportunities to progress within neonatal and paediatric nursing
Experience in a modern and well-equipped clinical environment
Living and Working in Somerset
Somerset offers a balanced lifestyle combining professional opportunity with a high quality of life.
The region provides:
- Affordable housing compared to many UK regions
Access to countryside, coastlines, and nature
Nearby cities including Bristol, Bath, and Exeter
Strong transport links, including access to London
Family-friendly communities and excellent schools