Job Summary
We are seeking a highly motivated and reliable Pharmacy Assistant to join our team, providing crucial support across our Main Pharmacy, Satellite Pharmacy and Technical Services departments. This is an exciting opportunity to work in a dynamic healthcare environment, supporting the delivery of quality Pharmacy services to our patients.
Your main responsibility will be to assist in the day-to-day operations of the Main Pharmacy, Satellite Pharmacy and Technical Services.
Ideally you should have experience in Hospital Pharmacy or community Pharmacy and the NVQ Level 2 in Pharmacy Services qualification or a willingness to work towards it in an agreed timescale for which full support will be provided.
You must possess a minimum of four GCSE, grade C or above (or equivalent), including Science, Mathematics and English. You will also need to have good interpersonal and communication skills, be a quick learner, be keen to get involved and be committed to the training programme. The ability to cope with the discipline of studying whilst working as part of a team throughout this busy department is essential and a professional approach is the key to a successful completion of the above qualification.
Main Duties of the Job
* To assist in the day-to-day operations of the Main Pharmacy, Satellite Pharmacy and Technical Services.
* Assist with reception service in the Pharmacy, taking receipt and payments for prescriptions and forward for processing.
* Accurately label and dispense medications as per prescription request.
* Maintain good stock control and stock rotation by regular expiry date checks, daily stock takes and receipt of goods to the department.
* Have a basic understanding of professional standards and good aseptic practices defined by the Quality Assurance of Aseptic Preparation Services and Guide to Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP).
About Us
Friendly and welcoming team, who pride themselves on training and developing staff to achieve their potential.
There may be opportunities to apply for further education via the apprentice course (Pharmacy trainee NVQ Level 3) on successful completion which will qualify as a Pharmacy Technician.
Date Posted
11 April 2025
Pay Scheme
Agenda for change
Band
Band 2
Salary
£28,720 a year pa incl HCAS Outer pro rata
Contract
Fixed term
Duration
1 year
Working Pattern
Full-time
Reference Number
199-7068852-FM-NP
Job Locations
Croydon University Hospital
530 London Road
Croydon
CR7 7YE
Job Description
Main Duties and Responsibilities
Technical Services
* Have a basic understanding of professional standards and good aseptic practices defined by the Quality Assurance of Aseptic Preparation Services and Guide to Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP).
* To comply with the COSHH regulations (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health).
* To monitor the environment and equipment within the department to determine that they conform to agreed standards and carry out all necessary validations and accreditations.
* To assist with the cleaning and maintenance of the clean rooms and equipment to maintain a clean working environment. Ensure all excursions are reported.
* To ensure all drug transactions are entered accurately onto the Pharmacy stock control programme to minimise stock discrepancies and drug shortage situations.
* To be responsible for the maintenance of drug storage and rotation of stock, including clinical trials. Complete stock checks and perform expiry checks to minimise financial loss and maintain stock holding.
* To participate in the development of Technical Service by contributing to team and service reviews.
Main Pharmacy
* Assist with reception service in the Pharmacy, taking receipt and payments for prescriptions and forward for processing.
* Assist in daily cash reconciliations of prescription charges in accordance with financial policies.
* Assist under supervision, in the labelling and dispensing of medicines for inpatients, outpatients and patients being discharged from hospital (TTA).
* Maintain good stock control and stock rotation by regular expiry date checks, daily stock takes and receipt of goods to the department.
* Assist in maintenance of records; including daily and monthly filing of prescriptions and other documents.
* Answer telephone calls from wards and departments; pass to appropriate person if required.
* Provide a general housekeeping service to the main pharmacy, according to standard operating procedures.
* General duties as requested by departmental managers.
Satellite Pharmacy (AMU)
* Accurately label and dispense medications as per prescription request in Satellite Pharmacy.
* Assist in managing and monitoring medication stock levels, ensuring that inventory is replenished in a timely manner and shortages are reported.
* Conduct regular expiry date checks of medicines and correct disposal methods used according to SOP.
* Monitor temperature and record results to maintain an accurate log.
* Maintain a neat, tidy and organised workspace to ensure safety and efficiency in medication handling and dispensing.
* Adhere to all SOPs and policies pertaining to Satellite Pharmacy to ensure the safe and lawful dispensing of medicines.
Person Specification
Education and Qualifications Essential
* Achieved Grade C or equivalent in Maths, English and Science
* NVQ level 2
Desirable
* Customer care skills
Knowledge and Understanding Essential
* Understanding stock rotation and stock control
* Know limit of own responsibility and when to refer
* COSHH and Health and Safety
* IT skills word/data input/excel/email
Desirable
* Understanding needs for procedures and quality control
Experience and Skills Essential
* Team working
* Good written and verbal communication skills
* Accuracy and attention to detail
* Good organisational skills
Desirable
* Experience in working in dispensary setting
* Experience in working in aseptics
Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
Employer Details
Employer Name
Croydon Health Services NHS Trust
Address
Croydon University Hospital
530 London Road
Croydon
CR7 7YE
Employer's Website
https://www.croydonhealthservices.nhs.uk/recruitment/ #J-18808-Ljbffr