Job summary An exciting development opportunity has arisen for a Nurse Associate/Assistant Practitioner to join our vibrant and hard-working team at Mersey and West Lancashire Teaching Hospital NHS Trust. We are looking for an enthusiastic healthcare professional, with experience post qualification. The successful candidate is expected to be highly motivated, dedicated with a passion for excellence in patient care, along with excellent communication organisational skills. An Enhanced DBS with barred lists for both Adults & Children is required for this post. Main duties of the job Deliver high quality, person-centred care under the direction of a Registered Nurse or other registered care professional, dependent on setting Have proficient attitudes and behaviours compatible with NHS Values Work as part of a designated clinical and care team delivering care that focuses directly on the needs of the person Carry out specific delegated clinical and care tasks and responsibilities to a high standard and competency, under the direction and supervision of a Registered Nurse or other registered care professional Where appropriate work without direct supervision, at times delivering care independently in line with the individual's defined plan of care, within designated parameters of practice of the Nursing Associate role, accessing clinical and care advice when needed Continue to develop and improve practical and theoretical knowledge, competence and skills whilst in clinical practice and maintain all evidence required Contribute towards developing a culture of learning and innovation, developing high quality learning environments About us Mersey and West Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust serves a population of over 600,000 with a workforce of over 9000 dedicated and skilled staff across 21 sites. We strongly believe that the communities we serve should all have access to Five Star Patient Care. Our services: Acute Care Providing emergency and maternity services at Whiston, Southport and Ormskirk hospitals, and medical and surgical specialties across all our sites. Primary Care Providing primary care services at Marshalls Cross Medical Centre situated in St Helens Hospital. Community Services Providing adult community services for St Helens and a wheelchair service in Chorley, South Ribble, and West Lancashire. Our inpatient unit at Newton Community Hospital is where patients needing acute hospital beds can continue rehabilitation, freeing up space for more unwell patients. We also provide urgent care at our Urgent Treatment Centre located in St Helens town centre. Specialist Regional Services We provide the Mersey Regional Burns & Plastic Surgery Unit at Whiston Hospital and the Spinal Injuries Unit at Southport Hospital to more than 4 million people across the whole of Merseyside, West Lancashire, Cheshire, Isle of Man and North Wales. Achievements: Rated Outstanding by CQC Inspection August 2018 Top 100 places to work in the NHS (NHS Employers & Health Service Journal) National Preceptorship Accreditation (2023) for Nursing & AHP Preceptorship Programme Date posted 04 March 2025 Pay scheme Agenda for change Band Band 4 Salary £26,530 to £29,114 a year Per annum, Pro rata Contract Permanent Working pattern Part-time Reference number 409-6999468 Job locations Fingerpost Health Centre Atlas Street St Helens WA9 1LN Job description Job responsibilities KEY DUTIES The Nursing Associate will: Deliver high quality, person-centred care under the direction of a Registered Nurse or other registered care professional, dependent on setting Have proficient attitudes and behaviours compatible with NHS Values Work as part of a designated clinical and care team delivering care that focuses directly on the needs of the person Carry out specific delegated clinical and care tasks and responsibilities to a high standard and competency, under the direction and supervision of a Registered Nurse or other registered care professional Where appropriate work without direct supervision, at times delivering care independently in line with the individuals defined plan of care, within designated parameters of practice of the Nursing Associate role, accessing clinical and care advice when needed Continue to develop and improve practical and theoretical knowledge, competence and skills whilst in clinical practice and maintain all evidence required Contribute towards developing a culture of learning and innovation, developing high quality learning environments CLINICAL AND PROFESSIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES The following is an indicative list as tasks and responsibilities will vary on the care setting. Under indirect supervision and working in partnership with a Registered Nurse provide and deliver a high standard of nursing care Maintain understanding of all elements of the nursing process and be able to assist the registered nurse in the on-going assessment, planning, management and evaluation of care Support people with all aspects of individualised care including daily living, providing person-centred care and promoting health and independence through awareness raising and care navigation to other professionals as appropriate Provide care that recognises the individual needs of patients, ensuring reasonable adjustments are in place for patients with protected characteristics Recognise and report any situations, behaviours or errors that could result in poor care outcomes related to medicines management Undertake clinical tasks as appropriate to competence and setting Ensure the privacy, dignity and safety of people is maintained at all times Comply with the NMC regulations relating to revalidation to maintain NMC registration Act as a professional role model and in accordance with the NMC Code and the NMC Standards for Nursing Associates Act in accordance with all organisational policies and procedures and within expected values and behaviours Actively participate in and attend unit meetings Demonstrate the ability to recognise changing priorities seeking advice and guidance from the Registered Nurse or other registered care professionals as appropriate Report back and share information with the registered nurses on the condition, behaviour, activity and responses of people Recognise issues relating to safeguarding vulnerable children and adults and report any problems or raise concerns to the appropriate registered care professionals Assist in the assessment of and contribute to the management of risk across several areas within the environment where care is being delivered Assist in the implementation of appropriate action to meet the specific physical, emotional and psychological, social, cultural and spiritual needs of individuals and carers Assist in the delivery of complex care as prescribed by the registered nurse Maintain an understanding of caring for individuals with particular conditions specific to the service Maintain skills in relation to coaching/teaching individuals/carers/other staff Assist with the implementation and monitoring of clinical standards and outcomes Develop a working knowledge of other providers resources and referral systems to ensure individuals needs are met, within parameters of practice Engage in reflective practice including management of self and reflection on own reactions, asking questions and reflecting on answers given Demonstrate good understanding of principles of consent and ensure valid consent is obtained prior to undertaking nursing and care procedures Demonstrate good understanding of the Mental Capacity Act/Deprivation of Liberties and applies principles to everyday practice seeking advice/guidance from the registered nurse or registered care professional as required Communicate effectively across a wide range of channels and with a wide range of individuals, the public, health and social care professionals, maintaining the focus of communication on delivering and improving health and care services Demonstrate those inter-personal skills that promote clarity, compassion, empathy, respect and trust Contribute to team success and challenge others constructively Communicate with individuals, carers and other visitors in a courteous and helpful manner, whilst being mindful there may be barriers to understanding Report to appropriate registered care professional information received from the individuals, carers and members of the team Ensure all patient related information is treated sensitively and adhere to the principles of confidentiality at all times Report any accidents or incidents and raise any concerns as per organisational policy Ensure clear, concise, accurate and legible records and all communication is maintained in relation to care delivered adhering to local and national guidance Ensure ability to manage electronic records system taking cognisance of need to protect access (ID, passwords, swipe cards) Exercise personal responsibility and work independently within defined parameters of practice, taking the initiative in a variety of situations and performing a range of clinical and care skills consistent with the role, responsibilities and professional values of being a Nursing Associate Exercise judgement in assessing patient condition, comfort and wellbeing using analysis of a range of possible factors Ensure that only those activities for which competence has been achieved are undertaken without supervision and the recognition is given to the impact and consequences of practising outside capability ADMINISTRATIVE RESPONSIBILITIES Develop skills to maintain professional standards of record keeping Follow all information governance guidance and policies Maintain confidentiality as outlined within data protection policies TEACHING & TRAINING RESPONSBILITIES Comply with mandatory competencies in line with Trust policy Maintain own continuing professional development in accordance with NMC CPD requirements and contribute to formulation of own objectives and personal development plan Support, supervise, teach (where appropriate) and act as a role model to trainee nursing associates, student nurses, healthcare support workers and new staff members, promoting reflection and providing constructive feedback Contribute to the maintenance of the learning environment Adopt a reflective approach to own practice and with a view to continually improve Undertake further training as required, prior to carrying our any additional duties identified as relevant to role, to comply with Trust policies and procedures RESEARCH & AUDIT Identify relevant sources of evidence to inform practice Critically consider and analyse own practice in light of best available evidence Contribute to surveys, audits and research activity as required to own role, supporting recommended changes in practice Promote health and safety maintaining best practice in health, safety and security Share ideas with colleagues to improve care and suggest areas for innovation Adhere to legislation, policies, procedures and guidelines both local and national Regularly attend workplace and staff engagement meetings and contribute positively to discussions about the improvement of care Job description Job responsibilities KEY DUTIES The Nursing Associate will: Deliver high quality, person-centred care under the direction of a Registered Nurse or other registered care professional, dependent on setting Have proficient attitudes and behaviours compatible with NHS Values Work as part of a designated clinical and care team delivering care that focuses directly on the needs of the person Carry out specific delegated clinical and care tasks and responsibilities to a high standard and competency, under the direction and supervision of a Registered Nurse or other registered care professional Where appropriate work without direct supervision, at times delivering care independently in line with the individuals defined plan of care, within designated parameters of practice of the Nursing Associate role, accessing clinical and care advice when needed Continue to develop and improve practical and theoretical knowledge, competence and skills whilst in clinical practice and maintain all evidence required Contribute towards developing a culture of learning and innovation, developing high quality learning environments CLINICAL AND PROFESSIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES The following is an indicative list as tasks and responsibilities will vary on the care setting. Under indirect supervision and working in partnership with a Registered Nurse provide and deliver a high standard of nursing care Maintain understanding of all elements of the nursing process and be able to assist the registered nurse in the on-going assessment, planning, management and evaluation of care Support people with all aspects of individualised care including daily living, providing person-centred care and promoting health and independence through awareness raising and care navigation to other professionals as appropriate Provide care that recognises the individual needs of patients, ensuring reasonable adjustments are in place for patients with protected characteristics Recognise and report any situations, behaviours or errors that could result in poor care outcomes related to medicines management Undertake clinical tasks as appropriate to competence and setting Ensure the privacy, dignity and safety of people is maintained at all times Comply with the NMC regulations relating to revalidation to maintain NMC registration Act as a professional role model and in accordance with the NMC Code and the NMC Standards for Nursing Associates Act in accordance with all organisational policies and procedures and within expected values and behaviours Actively participate in and attend unit meetings Demonstrate the ability to recognise changing priorities seeking advice and guidance from the Registered Nurse or other registered care professionals as appropriate Report back and share information with the registered nurses on the condition, behaviour, activity and responses of people Recognise issues relating to safeguarding vulnerable children and adults and report any problems or raise concerns to the appropriate registered care professionals Assist in the assessment of and contribute to the management of risk across several areas within the environment where care is being delivered Assist in the implementation of appropriate action to meet the specific physical, emotional and psychological, social, cultural and spiritual needs of individuals and carers Assist in the delivery of complex care as prescribed by the registered nurse Maintain an understanding of caring for individuals with particular conditions specific to the service Maintain skills in relation to coaching/teaching individuals/carers/other staff Assist with the implementation and monitoring of clinical standards and outcomes Develop a working knowledge of other providers resources and referral systems to ensure individuals needs are met, within parameters of practice Engage in reflective practice including management of self and reflection on own reactions, asking questions and reflecting on answers given Demonstrate good understanding of principles of consent and ensure valid consent is obtained prior to undertaking nursing and care procedures Demonstrate good understanding of the Mental Capacity Act/Deprivation of Liberties and applies principles to everyday practice seeking advice/guidance from the registered nurse or registered care professional as required Communicate effectively across a wide range of channels and with a wide range of individuals, the public, health and social care professionals, maintaining the focus of communication on delivering and improving health and care services Demonstrate those inter-personal skills that promote clarity, compassion, empathy, respect and trust Contribute to team success and challenge others constructively Communicate with individuals, carers and other visitors in a courteous and helpful manner, whilst being mindful there may be barriers to understanding Report to appropriate registered care professional information received from the individuals, carers and members of the team Ensure all patient related information is treated sensitively and adhere to the principles of confidentiality at all times Report any accidents or incidents and raise any concerns as per organisational policy Ensure clear, concise, accurate and legible records and all communication is maintained in relation to care delivered adhering to local and national guidance Ensure ability to manage electronic records system taking cognisance of need to protect access (ID, passwords, swipe cards) Exercise personal responsibility and work independently within defined parameters of practice, taking the initiative in a variety of situations and performing a range of clinical and care skills consistent with the role, responsibilities and professional values of being a Nursing Associate Exercise judgement in assessing patient condition, comfort and wellbeing using analysis of a range of possible factors Ensure that only those activities for which competence has been achieved are undertaken without supervision and the recognition is given to the impact and consequences of practising outside capability ADMINISTRATIVE RESPONSIBILITIES Develop skills to maintain professional standards of record keeping Follow all information governance guidance and policies Maintain confidentiality as outlined within data protection policies TEACHING & TRAINING RESPONSBILITIES Comply with mandatory competencies in line with Trust policy Maintain own continuing professional development in accordance with NMC CPD requirements and contribute to formulation of own objectives and personal development plan Support, supervise, teach (where appropriate) and act as a role model to trainee nursing associates, student nurses, healthcare support workers and new staff members, promoting reflection and providing constructive feedback Contribute to the maintenance of the learning environment Adopt a reflective approach to own practice and with a view to continually improve Undertake further training as required, prior to carrying our any additional duties identified as relevant to role, to comply with Trust policies and procedures RESEARCH & AUDIT Identify relevant sources of evidence to inform practice Critically consider and analyse own practice in light of best available evidence Contribute to surveys, audits and research activity as required to own role, supporting recommended changes in practice Promote health and safety maintaining best practice in health, safety and security Share ideas with colleagues to improve care and suggest areas for innovation Adhere to legislation, policies, procedures and guidelines both local and national Regularly attend workplace and staff engagement meetings and contribute positively to discussions about the improvement of care Person Specification Qualifications Essential Registered Nursing Associate on NMC register or holds Assistant Practitioner Qualification GCS Grade A-C in Maths and English/GCSE Grade 4-9 in Maths and English/ Skills Levle 2 maths and English equivalent Knowledge & Experience Essential Understanding of the scope of the role of the Nursing Associate in the context of the nursing and multi-disciplinary team, and the organisation, and how the role may contribute to service development Evidence of working effectively as a team player under appropriate supervision, and as part of a multi-disciplinary team Knowledge of when to seek advice and escalate to the appropriate professional for expert help and advice Evidence of taking part in reflective practice and clinical supervision activities Understand requirements for NMC professional revalidation Understand and acts in accordance with NMC professional standards for practice contained within the Code Understanding of the importance of following procedures and treatment plans Understanding of evidence based practice Experience of providing, receiving, interpreting and using complex, sensitive information Understanding of the importance of the promotion of health and well-being (Making Every Contact Count) Desirable Experience of the speciality area Skills Essential Evidence of time management skills and ability to prioritise workload according to patient need Insight into how to evaluate own strengths and development needs, seeking advice where appropriate Ability to maintain high standards of quality in corporate and clinical record keeping; ensuring information is always recorded accurately, appropriately and kept up to date Intermediate IT skills Ability to demonstrate working on own initiative within set boundaries Able to deal with non-routine and unpredictable nature of the workload and individual patient contact Ability to communicate effectively with patients, relatives, carers and all members of the multi-disciplinary team Ability to support, supervise, asses and act as a role model to nursing associate students, other learners and health care support workers as required within the clinical setting Ability to evaluate, act upon and report appropriately a range of clinical values when recording patient's vital signs Ability to carry out manual handling tasks in relation to direct patient care requirements Ability to deal with emerging issues in a calm and effective manner Person Specification Qualifications Essential Registered Nursing Associate on NMC register or holds Assistant Practitioner Qualification GCS Grade A-C in Maths and English/GCSE Grade 4-9 in Maths and English/ Skills Levle 2 maths and English equivalent Knowledge & Experience Essential Understanding of the scope of the role of the Nursing Associate in the context of the nursing and multi-disciplinary team, and the organisation, and how the role may contribute to service development Evidence of working effectively as a team player under appropriate supervision, and as part of a multi-disciplinary team Knowledge of when to seek advice and escalate to the appropriate professional for expert help and advice Evidence of taking part in reflective practice and clinical supervision activities Understand requirements for NMC professional revalidation Understand and acts in accordance with NMC professional standards for practice contained within the Code Understanding of the importance of following procedures and treatment plans Understanding of evidence based practice Experience of providing, receiving, interpreting and using complex, sensitive information Understanding of the importance of the promotion of health and well-being (Making Every Contact Count) Desirable Experience of the speciality area Skills Essential Evidence of time management skills and ability to prioritise workload according to patient need Insight into how to evaluate own strengths and development needs, seeking advice where appropriate Ability to maintain high standards of quality in corporate and clinical record keeping; ensuring information is always recorded accurately, appropriately and kept up to date Intermediate IT skills Ability to demonstrate working on own initiative within set boundaries Able to deal with non-routine and unpredictable nature of the workload and individual patient contact Ability to communicate effectively with patients, relatives, carers and all members of the multi-disciplinary team Ability to support, supervise, asses and act as a role model to nursing associate students, other learners and health care support workers as required within the clinical setting Ability to evaluate, act upon and report appropriately a range of clinical values when recording patient's vital signs Ability to carry out manual handling tasks in relation to direct patient care requirements Ability to deal with emerging issues in a calm and effective manner 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. UK Registration Applicants must have current UK professional registration. For further information please see NHS Careers website (opens in a new window). Additional information 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. UK Registration Applicants must have current UK professional registration. For further information please see NHS Careers website (opens in a new window). Employer details Employer name Mersey and West Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust Address Fingerpost Health Centre Atlas Street St Helens WA9 1LN Employer's website https://www.merseywestlancs.nhs.uk/ (Opens in a new tab)