Job overview
We are seeking an enthusiastic, motivated and experienced Band 7 Radiographer to join our team of Lead Radiographers within the Radiology Department at Luton and Dunstable University Hospital.
Our department is made up of a dynamic and dedicated team of radiographers who are committed to delivering a consistently high standard of patient care. We place strong emphasis on professionalism, collaboration and effective communication, working closely with multidisciplinary colleagues to ensure that every patient receives safe, compassionate and high quality care throughout their time in the department.
As a Band 7 Lead Radiographer, the post holder will be expected to demonstrate strong leadership and excellent communication skills, supporting the day to day operational delivery of the imaging service while maintaining high clinical standards. The successful candidate will be able to work effectively within a fast paced environment, managing competing priorities while supporting staff, maintaining service quality and contributing to the continuous improvement of the department.
Main duties of the job
The post holder will be expected to competently undertake a range of imaging techniques, effectively planning and prioritising their own workload and that of their section while applying specialist clinical skills. They will be responsible for maintaining a consistently high standard of imaging practice, ensuring that patient safety, dignity and overall experience remain central to all aspects of care.
The successful candidate will act as a professional role model within the department, supporting the training and development of radiographers, student radiographers and other healthcare staff. This will include providing guidance, supervision and education to support colleagues in developing the clinical competence and professional behaviours required to deliver safe and compassionate patient care.
In addition, the post holder will take responsibility for a designated core area of the Imaging Department, contributing to the effective organisation and operational management of the service. They will provide specialist advice within their area of responsibility and support the wider team in maintaining high standards of practice, service delivery and continuous improvement.
Working for our organisation
Bedfordshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust provides hospital services to a growing population of around 700,000 people living across Bedfordshire and the surrounding areas across two busy hospital sites in Bedford and Luton. Both hospital sites offer key services such as A&E, Obstetrics-led Maternity and Paediatrics. You will be joining a friendly, high performing Trust committed to ensuring the health and wellbeing of staff. As one of the largest NHS Trusts in our region you will have access to a programme of high quality training and development to help you grow your career. The Trust continues to be committed to delivering the best patient care using the best clinical knowledge and technology available.
Our values
We not only recruit based on qualifications and experience - we recruit individuals who demonstrate the behaviours which underpin our Trusts core values. We achieve this by using values based recruitment. We are dedicated to making our recruitment practices as inclusive as possible for everyone, we are committed to promoting equality and diversity and creating a culture that values differences.
Please note that vacancies may close prior to the advertised closing date when sufficient number of applications have been received. All new staff will be subject to a probationary period covering first 6 months in post. Travel between hospital sites may be required. Please review all documents attached to ensure you familiarize yourself with all requirements of the job.
Detailed job description and main responsibilities
Responsibility
The Band 7 Plain Film Imaging Lead Radiographer will be expected to work competently within the plain film service at Luton and Dunstable University Hospital, providing leadership and professional support to ensure the safe, efficient and effective delivery of imaging services.
1. Ensure that patient care is delivered with the highest regard for privacy, dignity and respect at all times. This includes supporting patients with their individual needs, including assistance with personal hygiene, toileting and the safe handling and disposal of bodily fluids where required.
2. Ensure that patients are appropriately prepared, both physically and psychologically, for imaging examinations, providing clear explanations and reassurance where necessary.
3. Communicate complex or sensitive information effectively to patients, relatives and colleagues, overcoming potential barriers to understanding.
4. Take responsibility for patients during imaging examinations, adapting care appropriately according to the patient’s age, clinical condition and individual needs, while demonstrating empathy, reassurance and professionalism.
5. Apply specialist knowledge and clinical judgement when assessing, planning, implementing and evaluating patient care within the imaging pathway.
6. Ensure the safe handling and movement of patients using appropriate equipment and approved manual handling techniques in accordance with departmental and Trust policies.
7. Exercise sound analytical and judgement skills when communicating condition related information to patients, relatives, clinicians and other healthcare professionals, supporting effective multidisciplinary collaboration.
8. As the Plain Film Imaging Lead, contribute to the operational oversight of the plain film service, supporting the maintenance of high clinical standards, service efficiency and continuous improvement within the department.
Training
9. Maintain own professional competence and continuing professional development in accordance with professional and regulatory standards.
10. Supervise and actively participate in the clinical training of student radiographers and qualified radiographers, acting as a mentor where appropriate.
11. Support the professional development of radiographers and other staff within the department, encouraging the development of clinical skills and professional behaviours.
12. Participate in the training and education of imaging assistants and other healthcare professionals working within the imaging department.
13. Organise and deliver tutorials, teaching sessions and practical training within the plain film service to support the ongoing development of staff and maintain high standards of clinical practice.
Person specification
Education & Professional Qualifications
Essential criteria
14. BSc (Hons) in Diagnostic Radiography or an equivalent recognised qualification.
15. Registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) as a Diagnostic Radiographer.
16. Evidence of continuing professional development relevant to diagnostic imaging practice.
Desirable criteria
17. Postgrad study relevant to diagnostic imaging, leadership or healthcare practice.
18. Formal teaching, mentoring or clinical education qualification.
19. Leadership or management training relevant to a senior radiographer role.
Knowledge
Essential criteria
20. Sound understanding of current professional standards, legislation and guidance relevant to diagnostic imaging practice, including IR(ME)R and IRR
21. Understanding of quality assurance processes and the importance of maintaining high standards of imaging practice and patient safety
22. Awareness of clinical governance principles and the role of audit, incident reporting and continuous improvement within healthcare services
Desirable criteria
23. Knowledge of mentoring and supporting the education of student radiographers and junior staff.
24. Awareness of departmental quality improvement initiatives and service optimisation within radiology services.
Experience
Essential criteria
25. Significant experience working as a Diagnostic Radiographer within an acute hospital imaging department.
26. experience in performing a wide range of plain film radiography examinations to a high clinical standard
27. Experience of supporting, supervising or guiding junior radiographers, student radiographers or other healthcare staff within a clinical environment.
Desirable criteria
28. Previous experience in a senior or supervisory radiographer role within a plain film service.
29. Experience in implementing or supporting the introduction of new protocols, equipment or service developments within an imaging department.
Applicant requirements
You must have appropriate UK professional registration.
The postholder will have access to vulnerable people in the course of their normal duties and as such this post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (Amendment) (England and Wales) Order 2020 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service to check for any previous criminal convictions.
If you have problems applying, contact
Address Luton & Dunstable Hospital NHS Trust
Lewsey Road
Luton
Bedfordshire
LU4 0DZ
Telephone 01582 497325