Job overview
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.
We are looking for a highly motivated nurse, with the possession of both a strong clinical knowledge base and relevant skill set. You will be vital in the delivery of high quality, safe and effective care. This is a fantastic opportunity for an enthusiastic and dynamic individual who would like the opportunity to really make a difference. The successful candidate will require Respiratory experience at band 5 and have a passion for supporting a team to provide the highest standards of patient care. The post holder will be required to work a shift pattern covering days, nights and weekends. We will offer development programme opportunities, supervision, reflective practice, mentoring and coaching and will ensure you are fully supported in your new role.
We welcome applications from those who currently hold a UK NMC registration. If you currently hold an overseas nursing qualification and require sponsorship we are not currently direct hiring Internationally Qualified Nurses.
Main duties of the job
To have continuing 24 hour responsibility supporting the ward sister for the effective management of the area and deputising in their absence. In addition the post holder will provide nursing leadership within this area, ensuring an effective quality nursing service, with responsibility for standards of nursing care and patient safety.
The deputy sister / charge nurse will be responsible for supporting the ward sister the budget management of the ward, staff performance and appraisal. To manage an appropriate patient workload across the service, providing expert support and advice. Developing the teams and ensuring a seamless service for patients working closely with the ward sister.
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.
Detailed job description and main responsibilities
1. Act as a role model and assist in effective staff supervision with clinical practice, working with staff and patients in an advisory, teaching and support capacity and maintaining professional competence, authority and credibility.
2. Work collaboratively with clinical nursing experts including Heads of Nursing, Clinical Teams, Consultant Nurses, Nurse Specialists and Practice Development Nurses in the development of expert, personal centred practice.
3. Develop, motivate and lead a team by using objectives in line with
department, sub speciality and corporate goals in conjunction with the ward sister and in their absence.
4. Provide professional leadership with the ward sister within the department ensuring that all staff use evidence based practise and adhere to the NMC code of professional conduct.
5. Be able to demonstrate a high degree of motivation and innovation.
6. Communicate effectively with the department team participating and helping to arrange monthly team meetings and support robust systems exist so that staff feel informed.
7. To contribute positively to the effectiveness and efficiency of the teams in which he/she works.
8. Work with PALS and the complaints department with the ward sister to ensure that areas of concern are addressed effectively.
9. Be able to work in a multi-professional environment ensuring most effective use of all members of those professional teams.
10. Display strong leadership and positivity to the department team during times of increased pressure on resources, staffing crises, or bed pressures, working with divisional leads to assess risks across the division and how these can be minimised
Person specification
Qualifications
Essential criteria
11. RGN
12. Substantial experience post qualifications
13. Educated to Diploma level education in relevant subject
Desirable criteria
14. ILS provider Leadership course or equivalent
15. Educated to Degree level or equivalent
Experience
Essential criteria
16. Significant experience post registration
17. Experience of working in a respiratory area
18. Preceptorship
19. Evidence of professional continued education
Desirable criteria
20. Respiratory courses
21. Knowledge of leading a team
22. Knowledge of managing change
23. Understanding of NHS budgetary systems
24. Venepuncture Cannulation
25. Aware of Health & Safety issues and risk management
Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion
Essential criteria
26. Evidence of having championed diversity in previous roles (as appropriate to role).
27. 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