Job overview
An exciting secondment opportunity has arisen within the Medicine division for an enthusiastic Band 6 Nurse to support the nursing team on Bosham Ward.
We are seeking a highly motivated and credible clinical role model to work alongside the Ward Leader in supporting and developing the ward team. The successful candidate will demonstrate strong leadership and communication skills, inspiring and motivating both new and existing staff to deliver high-quality, compassionate care. A commitment to maintaining the highest standards of patient safety, dignity, and professionalism is essential for this role.
This role is eligible for visa sponsorship under the UK Visas & Immigration (UKVI) Skilled Worker route however sponsorship can only be provided where applicants meet the specific requirements set by UKVI, including the relevant skill and salary thresholds (£25000), and any role-specific criteria.
Please note that if you currently work for another NHS Trust or UHSussex and you are applying to accept this position as a secondment opportunity, before applying you must seek agreement and authorisation from your current Trust/Manager. Secondments can’t be agreed without this approval. If you are unable to gain approval you should refrain from applying unless you wish to take this role as a fixed term position.
Main duties of the job
The successful candidate will be dynamic, passionate, and committed to supporting the ongoing development of both the ward and its nursing team. They will demonstrate initiative, a willingness to learn, and the ability to deputise for the Ward Manager when required, taking charge and assisting with the day-to-day management of the ward.
As the Deputy Ward Sister/Charge Nurse, you will also play a key role in supporting the effective management of the ward budget, overseeing staff performance, and contributing to appraisal and professional development processes.
Working for our organisation
At UHSussex, diversity is our strength, and we want you to feel included to help us always deliver Excellent Care Everywhere, as shown in our Outstanding for Caring CQC rating. Your uniqueness and experiences will be part of our creative and innovative community where everyone is encouraged to succeed. We have a range of staff networks to help break down barriers, and can offer a buddy to help new members settle in. We’re proud to be a Disability Confident Employer (Level 3) and a Veteran Aware Trust.
Candidate Pack
Detailed job description and main responsibilities
The post holder will act as a professional role model, ensuring effective staff supervision and high standards of clinical practice. They will work closely with staff and patients in an advisory, teaching, and supportive capacity, maintaining professional competence, authority, and credibility at all times.
Collaboration will be essential, working alongside clinical nursing leaders including Heads of Nursing, Consultant Nurses, Nurse Specialists, Practice Development Nurses, and wider multidisciplinary teams to promote and develop expert, person-centred care.
The successful candidate will demonstrate the ability to develop, motivate, and lead a team, setting clear objectives aligned with departmental, specialty, and organisational goals. They will provide professional leadership within the department, in partnership with the Band 7 Ward Leader, ensuring that all nursing practice is evidence-based and adheres to the NMC Code of Professional Conduct.
A high level of motivation, innovation, and effective communication is essential. The post holder will ensure regular team meetings are held and that robust communication systems are in place so that all staff are well informed and engaged. They will contribute positively to the effectiveness and efficiency of the wider team, working with PALS to ensure any areas of concern are addressed promptly and effectively.
The role also requires working within a multi-professional environment, promoting the most effective use of all team members. The post holder will display strong leadership and positivity, particularly during times of operational pressure, staffing challenges, or increased bed demand, collaborating with divisional leads to assess and minimise risks across the division.
Please refer to the attached job description for a full overview of the role and main responsibilities.
Person specification
Essential
Essential criteria
1. NMC registration
2. PSA / Mentorship
3. Experience of taking charge
4. Understanding of skill mix and rosters
5. Demonstrate leadership and motivating staff
6. Educated to Diploma / degree level education in relevant subject
7. Evidence of professional development since qualification
8. Understanding and recent experience of acute hospital environment
9. Experience in discharge planning
10. Substantial recent experience as a Senior Band 5 or Band 6
Desirable criteria
11. Understanding of audits / finance
12. Understanding of skill mix and rosters
13. Understanding some HR process
14. ILS provider
15. Leadership course or equivalent
16. Educated to Degree level or equivalent
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
Essential criteria
17. Evidence of having championed diversity in previous roles (as appropriate to role).
18. Evidence of having undertaken own development to improve understanding of equalities issues
Important information for applicants:
A Note on AI Use in Applications
We value the individuality and authenticity that each candidate brings to the application process. While AI tools are increasingly accessible, we strongly discourage their use in completing your application. Your responses should reflect your own voice, experiences, and motivations—elements that are essential to a fair and accurate evaluation.
Applications that rely heavily on AI-generated content may misrepresent your abilities and could result in your application being rejected. We encourage you to take the time to present your genuine self, as this helps us better understand your potential and ensures a transparent selection process.
Closing Adverts Early: In the event of exceptional interest, we may close adverts earlier than specified.
Some of our adverts are capped for a limited number of applications; therefore, the advert will close once the cap has been reached. We therefore encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible if you are interested in the position to prevent you from missing out on applying for the opportunity.
Flexible Working: If you would like to explore potential options regarding flexible working please speak with the appropriate recruiting/line manager.
DBS Checks: As part of our commitment to a safe working environment, we undertake a Disclosure and Barring Service check on all new employees where the role is eligible for a criminal record check. We make offers in line with the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1975.
Skilled Worker Visa: Applications for Skilled Worker sponsorship are welcome for the roles that meet the Visa and Immigrations eligibility criteria. For further information please visit the gov.uk website searching for Skilled Worker. It is your responsibility as the applicant to ensure that you meet this criteria.
UHSussex reserves the right to close the role early if we receive a high volume of applications