Job overview
We are looking for an enthusiastic dietitian with a passion and interest in Paediatric Dietetics to join our forward-thinking and friendly paediatric Dietetic Team. Based at Dorset County Hospital (DCH), in Dorchester, the historic county town of Dorset, we are responsible for providing a dietetic service to children and young people who live in West Dorset, with the majority of our population living in Weymouth, Dorchester, Bridport and Blandford Forum, but also the surrounding rural area.
Although it would be ideal if you had some paediatric experience and/or are working at band 6 level, we would consider fast track to band 6 for a suitable band 5 candidate who is interested in a career in paediatric dietetics. We would also welcome colleagues who are returning to the profession. We are open to discussion regarding the final remit for this role in relation to the areas of cover within acute wards, outpatient clinics and home enteral nutrition caseloads.
Main duties of the job
We cover a variety of outpatient clinics including general dietetics, cystic fibrosis, home enteral nutrition patients. We provide a service to children from 0-18 years who are admitted to Kingfisher ward and will soon be providing a service to SCBU. The specific role of this post will be dependant upon further discussion with the successful candidate.
Working for our organisation
The dietetic department in Dorset County Hospital is an expanding team who provide a seamless service to both acute and community services. Our Paediatric team are involved in multi-disciplinary clinics for children with diabetes, cystic fibrosis, coeliac condition, and allergy; this also involves regular combined working with tertiary services from Southampton. We hold several general paediatric dietetic clinics and provide a service to Kingfisher ward which admits children from birth to 18 years of age. We also have a special care baby unit. We provide a service to around 50 children and young people requiring home tube feeding. We are a friendly and supportive team and work closely with the team of approximately 13 paediatricians and the various children’s nurses and therapy services. We also provide training placements for student dietitians.
The department has close links with the paediatric teams in Southampton and Salisbury. We work closely with the adult dietetic team in DCH who cover both acute and community services including nutrition support, oncology, diabetes, stroke and provide the regional kidney services. We also have an excellent team of supportive administrative staff.
Detailed job description and main responsibilities
Our DCHFT Job Description and Person Specification (attached) tells you all about this role, what to expect and what is needed to succeed. When completing your application please make sure to tell us how your experience and skills fit the person specification.
Person specification
EDUCATION, QUALIFICATIONS & TRAINING
Essential criteria
* BSc in Human Nutrition & Dietetics or equivalent qualification as a dietitian
* Current registered dietitian status with HCPC
Desirable criteria
* Post-registration training or experience in paediatric dietetics
* Post-graduate qualifications in paediatric dietetics including BDA paediatric modules 1 and 2
* Basic training in communication and behaviour change
* Clinical Supervisory Skills course
* Teaching qualification or experience of delivering education to groups
* Evidence of CPD
* Motivational interviewing or behaviour change course
* Child protection training
KNOWLEDGE & EXPERIENCE
Essential criteria
* Minimum of 18 months - 2 years post registration experience
* Knowledge of the BDA and HCPC standards that govern dietetics.
Desirable criteria
* Experience of working at Band 6 level
* Previous experience of paediatric dietetics
* Knowledge of child development
* Wide ranging clinical dietetic experience
* Experience of leading on a specified element of a service.
* Experience of training student Dietitians
* Sound clinical knowledge relating to paediatric dietetics
* Evidence of interest in paediatric dietetics
* Experience in training other healthcare professionals
* Experience of writing policy/guidelines
* Experience of conducting audit or research
* Experience of managing staff
SKILLS & ABILITIES
Essential criteria
* Able to implement the BDA Nutritional Care Process
* Competent written communication skills
* Evidence of using personalised care approach
* Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to work alone and as part of the multidisciplinary team
* Evidence of excellent time management skills; flexibility, ability to prioritise work, use initiative to complete projects and meet deadlines
* Understanding of clinical governance as it relates to dietetic practice
* Understanding of confidentiality as it relates to dietetic practice
* A working knowledge of Microsoft and NHS computer systems including technology for delivery of virtual services
* Able to travel to community settings for outreach work
* Confident, self-motivated and innovative
* Flexible, able to set priorities and meet deadlines
* Able to deal with distressed patients/clients and carers
* Demonstrates a commitment to achieving a high standard of work
Desirable criteria
* Evidence of ability to act as a mentor to student dietitians and clinically support/line manage junior staff
* An understanding of audit and research in relation to dietetic practice
* Ability to participate in a working from home rota
* Evidence of ability to use initiative but recognise limits
Our Mission
Outstanding care for people in ways which matter to them.
Our Vision
Dorset County Hospital, working with our health and social care partners, will be at the heart of improving the well-being of our communities.
Our Values
Integrity, Respect, Teamwork, Excellence
We are a Trust that celebrates diversity and we are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We would welcome applications from people in all under-represented groups.
PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING IMPORTANT INFORMATION CAREFULLY BEFORE YOU SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION
Please read the job description and person specification carefully to ensure your application reflects the knowledge, skills and experience required.
The closing date/interview date is subject to amendment; this vacancy may therefore expire at short notice, so we recommend that you submit an application at your earliest convenience. We reserve the right to close any vacancies without notice.
Shortlisted applicants will be contacted via email; therefore it is important that you check your personal email account regularly.
Unfortunately we are unable to respond to every application; if we do not contact you within 4 weeks of the closing date, please be advised that you not have been shortlisted on this occasion.
You can contact us on 01305 254655 to find out whether you have been shortlisted or if you would like feedback.