Job summary We are seeking a matron for General Surgery withing the GSAC division. The individual will join an established matron team lead by the Divisional Chief Nurse and supported by a Head of Nursing. We are looking for someone with excellent management, communication clinical and leadership skills to support the workforce in GSACT. In return we can offer you a supportive leadership team and division where you can build your skills and gain further experience. Main duties of the job Support the Divisional Chief Nurse to integrate both corporate and divisional nursing plans focusing on quality and safely of nursing care, patient experience and service improvement.Support the Divisional Chief Nurse in managing the operationalelements pertinent to the clinical areas within the Division. Be a visible, accessible senior leader in clinical areas professionally representing the Division at all times. Work alongside clinical teams as a senior nurse and provide experienced advice to ensure quality patient care and team support. Focus on efficient, safe and timely patient discharge, eliminating delay and inconvenience to patients, next of kin and care discharge destinationsEnsure all patients are treated with privacy, respect and dignity throughout their stay patients ensuring safety issues are prioritised and adhered to at all times. Provide effective clinical leadership, expertise, advice and support tothe clinical teams and ensure best practice and the provision of highquality care to patients, families and carers. Lead, support, develop and strengthen the role of the unit/departmentmanagers and ensure that appropriate time is allocated to ward improvement, improving ward metrics and overseeing the management of staff and work rotas. Ensure that practice standards are adhered to and that mandatory compliance is achieved and maintained. About us Ashford and St. Peters Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust serves a population of more than 410,000 people living in North-West Surrey, parts of Hounslow and beyond. Over 3,700 highly trained doctors, nurses, midwives, therapists, healthcare scientists and other support staff make up our workforce, providing a wide range of services across our two hospital sites, Ashford, Ashford, Surrey and St Peter's, Chertsey, Surrey. We also run many specialist clinics in the community and local community hospitals and other healthcare facilities. Our vision is to be one of the best healthcare Trusts in the country. There has never been a better time to join us in the NHS at Ashford & St Peters Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust with our strong commitment to staff health and wellbeing. We are committed to providing continuous professional development, staff benefits and flexibility to shape our workforce around our patient care. Although it isn't the Trusts normal practice, adverts may close early, so applicants are encouraged to submit an application as soon as possible. Date posted 26 February 2025 Pay scheme Agenda for change Band Band 8a Salary £55,877 to £62,626 a year pa inc. HCAS Contract Permanent Working pattern Full-time Reference number 323-NM8088-MH Job locations St Peters Guildford road Chertsey KT16 0PZ Job description Job responsibilities To be a highly competent, knowledgeable and visible practitioner within the speciality ensuring that the provision of excellent evidence based nursing care is available for patients, families and carers. Have daily contact with staff and undertake rounds to assess and respond to clinical priorities, patient and staff concerns. To ensure that patients are assessed on a daily basis by a qualified nurse, and that their care is planned, implemented and evaluated in negotiation with the family, and that this is accurately documented. To work alongside all members of the team to identify new ways of working that ensure high quality of care is delivered by an educated team of nurses and Nurse Educators. Accountable for achieving rigorous adherence to infection control safety practices including hand hygiene and universal precautions Liaise with clinical, non-clinical and facilities staff in order to maintain a safe, friendly and welcoming environment for patients, visitors and staff. To communicate complex and sensitive information effectively to patients and their families/carers, and other staff, overcoming barriers to understanding and providing support during distressing oremotional events. Ensure effective communication between all members of the multidisciplinary team, other hospital departments, relatives and visitors. In conjunction with the Divisional Chief Nurse, Divisional Director and Associate Director of Operations to identify, develop and monitor clinical and non-clinical performance standards, taking action as required. To develop and maintain clinical skills and knowledge necessary to provide holistic, evidence based nursing care. This includes completion of the Trusts clinical skills competency framework and expanded role responsibilities following appropriate training. Leadership or managerial Develop and strengthen the role of the ward managers and nursing teams in line with division and trust objectives. To ensure that all nursing staff are accountable and responsible and that care is provided in line with Divisional and Trusts strategic objectives, e.g. financial stability, zero harm, zero waste and zero waits. To carry out individual performance reviews with the teams and ensure they have access to relevant training and development opportunities, as defined in their PDR and in relation to their role and ensuring mandatory training is completed. Function as line manager for designated specialist nurses within sphere of control. To support the Divisional Chief Nurse in working with the ward managers to review staffing establishments and skill mix, and ensure that staffing is appropriate for current and projected clinical demands. To monitor and oversee duty rotas via use of electronic staff rostering to ensure effective use ofresources, ensuring rigorous control of bank and agency usage. To support the ward managers to effectively and efficiently co-ordinate the day to day operational management of their immediate clinical area informing the Divisional Chief Nurse of anything which threatens to affect the safety of the environment or which may compromise the care of patients or the reputation of the division. To monitor and ensure that staffing levels deliver the full complement of beds and activity targets within the agreed budget, working closely with the Divisional Chief Nurse and the Associate Directorof Operations. Manage nursing recruitment and foster an environment which enhances the retention of staff and looks at new ways of working in line with the improving working lives policy. Supported by Divisional Chief Nurse to reduce staff turnover by 50%. Lead on specific service improvement initiatives as determined by the Divisional ManagementTeam. To actively manage in conjunction with the ward managers sickness/absence, as per Trust policy, and lead on disciplinary activities including performance management. Assist Divisional Chief Nurse in change management including facilitating new ways of working through implementing additional support roles, and supporting their integration and development within the clinical environment. To manage and assist the ward managers in the appraisal process and ensure all staffhave the opportunity to review their performance and develop a meaningful professional development plan in line with the knowledge and skills framework which serves to deliver personalas well as division wide objectives. Working in partnership with the Divisional Chief Nurse, maximise and develop leadership abilities and skill set within senior nursing team, based within the clinical environment. Working in partnership with Divisional Chief Nurse, introduce a model of nursing care which is patient focused. In conjunction with the Service Managers introduce processes tostreamline communication within the clinical environment and to ensure staff, at all levels are effectively informed enabling them to successfully carry out their duties. Provide professional advice and support to staff in the department in conjunction with the Clinical Practice Educator/Facilitator. To ensure that all staff are familiar with the nursing vision and ensure that key indicators are met in relation to getting the basics rightimplementation of Ward Quality audits, Ward Accreditation and adherence to CQC standards. Initiate and develop audits of service delivery and implementation of findings to improve patientcare. Act as an ambassador for the Division and speciality and to contribute to relevant trust wide groups. Educational To foster an environment conducive to learning, enquiry, and research that is linked to the Trusts research strategy. Support the Clinical Practice Educator with the planning, implementation and evaluation of trainingand educational requirements. To be a professional resource for all staff within the unit including nursing, medical, administrative, support and therapeutic staff. To contribute to the production of clinical procedural guidelines and pathways of care Promote, initiate and participate in audit and research studies relating to nursing and multidisciplinary care, presenting findings through presentations and writing for publication. Maintain and develop own professional and mandatory training To support relevant Division and Trust wide projects and facilitate forums to ensure staff are actively engaged ProfessionalTo maintain confidentiality surrounding the patients care and treatment at all times To ensure documentation is completed accurately and within agreed timescales using Trust approved documentation, in line with NMC and Trust guidelines. To have a knowledge of and adhere to local and Trust policy and professional standards. To ensure that team members do likewise. To demonstrate a professional approach to work, and act in accordance with the Trust 4 Ps pledge and the NMC Code of Professional Conduct at all times. To undertake further training and academic qualifications as relevant to the role and service requirements Job description Job responsibilities To be a highly competent, knowledgeable and visible practitioner within the speciality ensuring that the provision of excellent evidence based nursing care is available for patients, families and carers. Have daily contact with staff and undertake rounds to assess and respond to clinical priorities, patient and staff concerns. To ensure that patients are assessed on a daily basis by a qualified nurse, and that their care is planned, implemented and evaluated in negotiation with the family, and that this is accurately documented. To work alongside all members of the team to identify new ways of working that ensure high quality of care is delivered by an educated team of nurses and Nurse Educators. Accountable for achieving rigorous adherence to infection control safety practices including hand hygiene and universal precautions Liaise with clinical, non-clinical and facilities staff in order to maintain a safe, friendly and welcoming environment for patients, visitors and staff. To communicate complex and sensitive information effectively to patients and their families/carers, and other staff, overcoming barriers to understanding and providing support during distressing oremotional events. Ensure effective communication between all members of the multidisciplinary team, other hospital departments, relatives and visitors. In conjunction with the Divisional Chief Nurse, Divisional Director and Associate Director of Operations to identify, develop and monitor clinical and non-clinical performance standards, taking action as required. To develop and maintain clinical skills and knowledge necessary to provide holistic, evidence based nursing care. This includes completion of the Trusts clinical skills competency framework and expanded role responsibilities following appropriate training. Leadership or managerial Develop and strengthen the role of the ward managers and nursing teams in line with division and trust objectives. To ensure that all nursing staff are accountable and responsible and that care is provided in line with Divisional and Trusts strategic objectives, e.g. financial stability, zero harm, zero waste and zero waits. To carry out individual performance reviews with the teams and ensure they have access to relevant training and development opportunities, as defined in their PDR and in relation to their role and ensuring mandatory training is completed. Function as line manager for designated specialist nurses within sphere of control. To support the Divisional Chief Nurse in working with the ward managers to review staffing establishments and skill mix, and ensure that staffing is appropriate for current and projected clinical demands. To monitor and oversee duty rotas via use of electronic staff rostering to ensure effective use ofresources, ensuring rigorous control of bank and agency usage. To support the ward managers to effectively and efficiently co-ordinate the day to day operational management of their immediate clinical area informing the Divisional Chief Nurse of anything which threatens to affect the safety of the environment or which may compromise the care of patients or the reputation of the division. To monitor and ensure that staffing levels deliver the full complement of beds and activity targets within the agreed budget, working closely with the Divisional Chief Nurse and the Associate Directorof Operations. Manage nursing recruitment and foster an environment which enhances the retention of staff and looks at new ways of working in line with the improving working lives policy. Supported by Divisional Chief Nurse to reduce staff turnover by 50%. Lead on specific service improvement initiatives as determined by the Divisional ManagementTeam. To actively manage in conjunction with the ward managers sickness/absence, as per Trust policy, and lead on disciplinary activities including performance management. Assist Divisional Chief Nurse in change management including facilitating new ways of working through implementing additional support roles, and supporting their integration and development within the clinical environment. To manage and assist the ward managers in the appraisal process and ensure all staffhave the opportunity to review their performance and develop a meaningful professional development plan in line with the knowledge and skills framework which serves to deliver personalas well as division wide objectives. Working in partnership with the Divisional Chief Nurse, maximise and develop leadership abilities and skill set within senior nursing team, based within the clinical environment. Working in partnership with Divisional Chief Nurse, introduce a model of nursing care which is patient focused. In conjunction with the Service Managers introduce processes tostreamline communication within the clinical environment and to ensure staff, at all levels are effectively informed enabling them to successfully carry out their duties. Provide professional advice and support to staff in the department in conjunction with the Clinical Practice Educator/Facilitator. To ensure that all staff are familiar with the nursing vision and ensure that key indicators are met in relation to getting the basics rightimplementation of Ward Quality audits, Ward Accreditation and adherence to CQC standards. Initiate and develop audits of service delivery and implementation of findings to improve patientcare. Act as an ambassador for the Division and speciality and to contribute to relevant trust wide groups. Educational To foster an environment conducive to learning, enquiry, and research that is linked to the Trusts research strategy. Support the Clinical Practice Educator with the planning, implementation and evaluation of trainingand educational requirements. To be a professional resource for all staff within the unit including nursing, medical, administrative, support and therapeutic staff. To contribute to the production of clinical procedural guidelines and pathways of care Promote, initiate and participate in audit and research studies relating to nursing and multidisciplinary care, presenting findings through presentations and writing for publication. Maintain and develop own professional and mandatory training To support relevant Division and Trust wide projects and facilitate forums to ensure staff are actively engaged ProfessionalTo maintain confidentiality surrounding the patients care and treatment at all times To ensure documentation is completed accurately and within agreed timescales using Trust approved documentation, in line with NMC and Trust guidelines. To have a knowledge of and adhere to local and Trust policy and professional standards. To ensure that team members do likewise. To demonstrate a professional approach to work, and act in accordance with the Trust 4 Ps pledge and the NMC Code of Professional Conduct at all times. To undertake further training and academic qualifications as relevant to the role and service requirements Person Specification Attitude, Behaviour and Values Essential Seeks out and takes opportunities for improving the service offered Flexible in their attitudes and behaviours to support team working and delivery of objectives Respects, values and cares for others Takes pride in their work and their team Qualifications and Further Training Essential NMC Registered Nurse Evidence of on-going dynamic continuing professional development linked to demonstrable clinical competencies and academic studies. Possession of a relevant Honours degree or in the process of obtaining or working towards higher education Leadership or management training Desirable Assessing and mentoring qualification EXPERIENCE Essential Post registration experience within relevant clinical environment including time at Band 7 level. Experience of taking charge of a department and leading and managing a team. Previous experience of budget and financial management. Previous experience of budget and financial management Experience of handling clinical incidents and complaints KNOWLEDGE Essential Trust vision, values, strategic objectives Understanding of resource management, health and safety, clinical risk and quality issues. Awareness of equality and diversity. Must be able to demonstrate that you have knowledge of your professional code of conduct and guidance issued by your professional body and that you adhere to these. SKILLS Essential You have a good understanding of their communication, physical & emotional needs; can identify their individual needs and preferences, their changing needs and recognise and promote their independence Excellent up to date clinical skills excellent managerial, leadership and organisational skills Able to work across professional teams and organizational boundaries Interviewing and appraisal skills Ability to initiate, manage and sustain change. other Essential Ability to deal with conflict situations Person Specification Attitude, Behaviour and Values Essential Seeks out and takes opportunities for improving the service offered Flexible in their attitudes and behaviours to support team working and delivery of objectives Respects, values and cares for others Takes pride in their work and their team Qualifications and Further Training Essential NMC Registered Nurse Evidence of on-going dynamic continuing professional development linked to demonstrable clinical competencies and academic studies. Possession of a relevant Honours degree or in the process of obtaining or working towards higher education Leadership or management training Desirable Assessing and mentoring qualification EXPERIENCE Essential Post registration experience within relevant clinical environment including time at Band 7 level. Experience of taking charge of a department and leading and managing a team. Previous experience of budget and financial management. Previous experience of budget and financial management Experience of handling clinical incidents and complaints KNOWLEDGE Essential Trust vision, values, strategic objectives Understanding of resource management, health and safety, clinical risk and quality issues. Awareness of equality and diversity. Must be able to demonstrate that you have knowledge of your professional code of conduct and guidance issued by your professional body and that you adhere to these. SKILLS Essential You have a good understanding of their communication, physical & emotional needs; can identify their individual needs and preferences, their changing needs and recognise and promote their independence Excellent up to date clinical skills excellent managerial, leadership and organisational skills Able to work across professional teams and organizational boundaries Interviewing and appraisal skills Ability to initiate, manage and sustain change. other Essential Ability to deal with conflict situations 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 Ashford & St. Peter's Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust Address St Peters Guildford road Chertsey KT16 0PZ Employer's website https://www.ashfordstpeters.nhs.uk/ (Opens in a new tab)