health and social care careers · careers. 1 introduction 2 pharmacy 3 social work 4 physiotherapy...

HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE CAREERS

1 Introduction

2 Pharmacy

3 Social Work

4 Physiotherapy

5 Dentistry

6 Diagnostic Radiography

7 Radiotherapy Radiography

8 Speech and Language Therapy

9 Care Work

10 Finance

11 Management

12 Nursing

13 Midwifery

14 Theatre Practice

15 Activities Worker

16 Pathology

17 Apprenticeships

18 Clinical Psychology

19 Medicine

20 Human Resources

21 Facilities

22 Occupational Therapy

23 Dietetics

24 Care Home Management

25 Orthoptics

26 Podiatry

27 Volunteering

28 Where are you now?

29 Notes

Page

CONTENTS

1

Health and Social Care supports Derbyshire’s 780,000 people living and working

across the county in various ways to improve and enhance the lives of people

and their families. Health and social care supports people of all ages, and with a

growing older population there is an increased need for the delivery of health and

social care to support the ageing population of Derbyshire.

Derbyshire’s Health and Social care providers offer support and make a difference

to people regardless of their background. Being employed within the Health

and Social Care sector can be very rewarding and can offer variety, training

opportunities, flexibility, progression and promotion.

With over 300 roles employment within Health and Social Care offers a huge range

of exciting and challenging opportunities for people who are passionate about

making a difference.

Roles within Health and Social Care include:• Allied Health Professions - Physiotherapists, Occupational Therapists,

Radiographers, Speech and Language Therapists, Podiatrists

• Care Workers - Nurses, Healthcare Assistants, Social Care Workers, Midwives

• Medical and Dental - Doctors, Surgeons, Orthodontists, Psychiatry, GPs

• Corporate Support Services - Finance, Facilities Management, IT, Human Resources

• Managerial and Leadership roles

• Estates and Facilities Professions - Caterers, Cleaners, Drivers,

Maintenance workers, Porters

There are varying entry requirements dependent on the role, and there

is the potential to progress and develop your career within and across a

variety of professions.

17 Apprenticeships

18 Clinical Psychology

19 Medicine

20 Human Resources

21 Facilities

22 Occupational Therapy

23 Dietetics

24 Care Home Management

25 Orthoptics

26 Podiatry

27 Volunteering

28 Where are you now?

29 Notes

INTRODUCTION

2

PHARMACYMedicines are the most common treatment offered to patients and the pharmacy

team is vital in ensuring they are used safely and effectively. With an ageing

population and increasing numbers of people living with long-term conditions, it is

more important than ever that patients get the most from their medicines. If you like

the idea of working with people, doing a job that’s respected and offers flexibility

and security, a career within a pharmacy team could be for you.

What will you do? There are three roles working across hospital and community pharmacy services:

Pharmacists lead the pharmacy team and work with patients, members of the public and

other healthcare professionals such as GPs, hospital doctors and nurses to advise on the most

effective treatments for certain conditions and how to use medicines safely and effectively.

Pharmacy Technicians work closely with pharmacists. The role varies widely depending

on where you work. You could be managing the supply of medicines from a community

pharmacy, or you could be manufacturing or preparing complex medicines in a hospital.

Pharmacy Assistants also perform a variety of roles, for example dispensing medicines, or

being involved in manufacturing medicines and ordering items for wards in a hospital.

Entry Requirements:Pharmacists | Registration requires completion of an MPharm degree at University and

practical training in a pre-registration programme. Entry requirements for the degree at

university vary, but usually include 3 A levels including chemistry.

Pharmacy Technicians | GPhC approved competency and knowledge-based qualification at

level 3. Training takes 2 years involving study and practical application.

GCSE | Minimum of five GCSEs at grade 4 or above (including English Language, Mathematics

and two Science subjects) or equivalent.

Pharmacy Assistants | No specific educational requirements, undertake On-the-job

workplace training, working towards two level 2 NVQ Pharmacy qualifications.

USEFUL LINKS:www.pharmacyregulation.org/education

www.healthcareers.nhs.uk/explore-roles/Pharmacy

Pharmacists Pharmacy Technicians Pharmacy Assistants

3

social work

Social Workers offer support, counselling and advocacy to individuals and

families, and intervene when vulnerable people need safeguarding support.

Social Workers usually provide support for a limited period of time to help

people adjust to changes in their lives such as an illness, age related problems,

disability or bereavement and support people to live independently.

Social Workers support a variety of people including older people, those with

learning disabilities, physical disabilities and mental health conditions such as

depression, anxiety, schizophrenia and personality disorders.

Entry Requirements:GCSE | 5 GCSEs A-C including English, Mathematics and a Science subject.

A levels | 3 A levels

University | Undergraduate Degree in Social Work (HCPC)

There are also some specific skills needed to work in this role. These include:• The ability to motivate people

• Good organisational skills

• problem solving skills to advise people on the best support for them

• Digital skills to keep records and find information online

• Time management and ability to schedule and plan ahead.

USEFUL LINKS:www.healthcareers.nhs.uk/explore-roles/wider-healthcare-team/roles-wider-

healthcare-team/clinical-support-staff/social-worker

www.skillsforcare.org.uk/Topics/Social-work/Social-work.aspx

4

PHysiotherapyMovement and physical activity are key factors in a person’s health.

Physiotherapists treat people of all ages who have physical problems caused by

illness, injury or ageing. They particularly concentrate on the limbs, neck and back

as well as on problems associated with poor circulation and breathing difficulties.

Main Responsibilities

• Whether it’s a sports injury, back pain or regaining strength after a stroke or long illness,

physiotherapists assess the problem and provide treatment, using techniques that range

from exercise programmes to using heat and other therapies.

• If you enjoy sports and exercise, physiotherapy will give you a deeper understanding

of what’s involved in movement and how injuries, pain and problems associated with

disease can be managed and treated. Many physiotherapists work with patients in

hospitals and in outpatient clinics, but there is a wide range of other possible settings.

Entry Requirements:GCSE | Minimum of five GCSEs at Grade C or above (including English Language and

Literature, Mathematics and a Science subject) or equivalent.

A levels or equivalent | Three A levels with a Science subject or Physical Education or an

approved access course.

University | BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy recognised by the Health Professions Council (HPC)

Undergraduate - 3 - 4 years.

USEFUL LINKS:www.hcpc-uk.org.uk

www.healthcareers.nhs.uk/explore-roles/allied-health-professionals/roles-allied-

health-professions/physiotherapist

5

Most staff working in Dentistry work in general practices, providing care to people

from the local community. Alternatively, you may choose to specialise in certain

types of treatment, work in a dental hospital, other hospitals or in a community

dental service. Dentists who work in hospitals will be responsible for a range of

jobs, such as root canal fillings, teeth replacements, orthodontics, oral surgery and

pathology, as well as preventive and public health initiatives.

Entry requirements:Entry requirements vary depending on level of role and could include,

GCSE | Minimum of five GCSEs at grade C or above (Including English Language and Litera-

ture, Mathematics and a Science subject) or equivalent.

A levels | High Grades - 3 A levels in Chemistry, Biology and Physics or Mathematics or an


University | BDS Dentistry - 5 years, optional extra year for further research (dependent on

university). Once qualified and registered with the GDC you will do one year’s foundation

training before you can work as a principal or associate in a general dental practice or start

further specialist training in one of the hospital specialties.

Useful links:www.gdc-uk.org

www.bda.ord

www.healthcareers.nhs.uk/explore-roles/dental-team/roles-dental-team/dentist/

entry-requirements-and-training-dentistry

DENTISTRY

Dentists

Dental Nurses

Hygienists

Dental Technicians

6

DIagnostic radiographyDiagnostic radiographers use the latest technology to look inside the body in

different ways. Non-ionising imaging includes ultrasounds, magnetic resonance

imaging (MRI) and optical imaging. Non-ionising imaging techniques are generally

safe, which is advantageous when imaging sensitive patient groups such as

children and they are extensively used in research for example, to investigate

the effectiveness of new drugs there are two types of radiography - diagnostic

and therapeutic. Both need considerable knowledge of technology, anatomy,

physiology and pathology to carry out their work. Many undertake further training

to become a sonographer.

Different Types of Imaging: Ultrasound uses high frequency sound waves and can produce real-time images of tissues

and organs within the body. Ultrasound is commonly used to monitor fetal development

and to assess and screen patients who present with a variety of clinical indicators including

suspected blood flow problems, gall stones and tumours.

MRI uses a combination of strong magnetic fields and radiowaves. MRI is renowned for its

ability to differentiate soft tissues. It can be used to examine almost any part of the body and

is the means of choice for imaging the central nervous system.

Optical Imaging involves measuring the physical properties of light to help make a

diagnosis. For example, when shining particular wavelengths of light onto cancerous tissues,

they may show different absorption, light scattering or fluorescent behaviours to normal skin.

Entry Requirements:GCSE | Minimum of five GCSEs at grade C or above (Including English Language and


A levels | 3 A levels - including a Science subject or an approved access course.

University | BSc (Hons) Diagnostic Radiology or BSc(Hons) Radiotherapy.

It is essential to have undertaken some direct work experience in a clinical department prior

to the university interview.

USEFUL LINKS:www.healthcareers.nhs.uk/explore-roles/allied-health-professionals/roles-allied-

health-professions/diagnostic-radiographer

7

RAdiotherapy RADIOGRAPHYRadiotherapy Radiography is the treatment of cancer with high energy radiation

such as X-rays. Patients often undergo radiotherapy every day for a number of

weeks, so it is vital to ensure that the treatment is delivered safely and accurately.

Working in radiotherapy physics, you would be responsible for the precision

and accuracy of treatments by using advanced computer calculations to develop

individual patient treatment plans. Planning starts with an image of the cancer to

be treated, usually taken on a CT or MRI scanner, outlining the target volume. The

treatment beams to be used can then be determined, making sure the radiation

dose to surrounding tissues is minimised.

You would also be responsible for ensuring that equipment used in Radiotherapy

is calibrated precisely and used safely, as well as ensuring the imaging equipment

used during treatment allows the Radiotherapy Radiography team to update the

treatment plan during a course of treatment.

Healthcare Science staff often work at the forefront of research and innovation, so

that patients are continually receiving the very best healthcare.



A levels | You will typically need at least 2, if not 3, A2/A levels. Including Science subjects or

equivalent.

University | Accredited BSc degree in Healthcare Science Radiotherapy Physics, but you are

advised to check with each university (or visit their website) before making an application.

It is essential that you contact the individual high education institution to check their specific

entry requirements.

USEFUL LINKS:www.healthcareers.nhs.uk/explore-roles/healthcare-science/roles-healthcare-

science/physical-sciences-and-biomedical-engineering/radiotherapy-physics

8

speech and language therapyThis role is about helping people who, for physical or psychological reasons,

have problems speaking and communicating. Patients range from children

whose speech is slow to develop, to older people whose ability to speak has

been impaired by illness or injury.

You would also be able to treat people who have difficulty with eating

and swallowing. You will be working in hospitals, outpatient clinics and

community health centres.

Entry Requirements:GCSE | Minimum of five GCSEs at grade C or above (including English Language and


A levels | 3 A levels, Biology may be required, dependent on the university or an


University | In order to practice you must be registered with the Health Care and

Professions Council (HCPC) in order to register you must successfully complete an

HCPC - approved programme in Speech and Language Therapy - BSc (Hons) Speech

and Language Therapy - 3/4 years - dependent on university.

Useful Links:www.rcslt.org

www.healthcareers.nhs.uk/explore-roles/allied-health-professionals/roles-

allied-health-professions/speech-and-language-therapist

9

care work

There are also some specific skills needed to work in this role. These include:• The ability to work on your own initiative and prioritise your workload

• Good listening and communication skills

• The ability to understand and follow policies and procedures

• Good writing skills to fill in care plans

• Show dignity and respect

• Be open to learning and reflection - (thinking about what you do and

why you do things in a certain way)

• The ability to work together

• Be committed to quality care and support.

Care workers can work in a care home, in people’s own homes or in the

community. Care workers who work in the community are sometimes called

domiciliary carers which often involves travelling to different clients’ houses.

Care workers support people with all aspects of their day to day living,

including social and physical activities, personal care, mobility and meal times.

You could work with lots of different people including adults with learning

disabilities, physical disabilities, substance misuse issues, mental health

conditions and older people.

Entry Requirements:You don’t necessarily need any qualifications to become a care worker. What’s really

important is that you have the right values and behaviours to work in social care.

Support Workers

Shared Lives Carers

Personal Assistants

10

FINANCEThe Health and Social Care sector needs to ensure that its funds are properly

controlled and wisely spent. Within the finance team, staff have a range of roles to

play, depending on where they work and the level of responsibility that they hold.

Working in finance you might be:• Managing budgets and making key decisions on spending

• In accounts, handling payments for goods and services

• Using computer-based systems to track financial activity or to audit expenditure and

income.

Finance staff are based within an organisation at Trust and local government headquarters.

Typical job roles include Finance Officer, Finance Clerk, Accounting Technician, Finance

Assistant, Payment Assistant, Ledger Clerk and Finance Analyst. More senior posts include

roles such as Finance Director, Business Accountant, and Head of Finance and Management.

Entry Requirements: You might come in with no qualifications through the administration route, as a clerk for

example, and study for a qualification. Some organisations may offer the chance to train

through an apprenticeship in financial services. The Association of Accounting Technicians

(AAT) is an ideal entry route into the accounting professions for school leavers and offers

flexible training including an NVQ route. All of our current finance apprentices are taking

the AAT route.

For more senior roles you will need a qualification that is recognised by the Association of

Accounting Technicians or the Consultancy Committee of Accountancy Bodies. There are

courses offered at university for Finance and Accounting for which A levels or equivalent

qualifications are usually required.

Useful Links:www.aat.org.uk

www.healthcareers.nhs.uk/explore-roles/wider-healthcare-team/roles-wider-

healthcare-team/corporate-services/finance-staff

11

management

Strategic Management Performance and Quality

Project Management Purchasing and Contract

Service Management Communications and Corporate Affairs

The Health and Social Care sector provides an enormous range of services to some

57 million people in England. Without skilled and dedicated managers to lead and

run it, the Health and Social Care sector would not be able to do what it’s here

for – providing care and support for the population. Managers are a key part in

the delivery of Health and Social Care, whether they are managing the talented,

hardworking staff, controlling the finance or providing equipment, buildings and

services.

Opportunities are many and varied - You could be a manager running a service or a Chief

Executive controlling a large organisation with a budget of millions of pounds.

A Career to Suit Your InterestsGeneral managers in Health and Social Care cover a wide range of areas including:

Entry Requirements:You can join the Health and Social Care sector in a more junior role and work your way

up into management. You will be able to take advantage of internal and external training

schemes. For most junior positions you will need 5 GCSEs at grade A to C or equivalent. Some

organisations offer apprenticeships in administration which is a great way to earn and learn.

A levels | 3 A levels. You may be able to start at a higher administrative grade, leading to a

supervisory role and then management.

University | Dependent on your degree and experience, you may be able to apply directly

for junior management vacancies.

Useful Links:www.healthcareers.nhs.uk/exploreroles

www.skillsforcare.org.uk/Careers-in-care/Job-roles/Job-roles-in-social-care.aspx

12

NURSingIf you want to work in an environment that is interesting, rewarding and

challenging then a career in nursing has plenty to offer. Nurses are a crucial part of

the healthcare team. They work in every sort of health setting from accident and

emergency to patients’ homes, with people of all ages and backgrounds.

Roles Available:Depending on experience and training there are plenty of opportunities for you to rise up

the ranks to manage teams, run wards and even reach consultant level, if desired. There are

many different roles available in nursing. These are just a few below:



A levels or equivalent | 3 A levels or an approved access course.

University | BSc (Hons)/PgDip/BN (Hons) Nursing - 2/4 years depending on university. It

is vital to check which qualifications are preferred by your favourite institute of higher

education.

USEFUL LINKS:www.nmc-uk.org

www.rcn.org.uk

www.healthcareers.nhs.uk/exploreroles

www.skillsforcare.org.uk/Careers-in-care/Job-roles/Job-roles-in-social-care.aspx

District nurses Theatre nurses

Neonatal nurses Adult nurses

Health nurses Mental health nurses

Children’s nurses Learning and disability nurses

13

midwiferyMidwives are the lead professionals in the care and management of normal

pregnancy and birth. They are instrumental in providing care to women

and families with complex medical, obstetric and social needs as part of the

wider multi-professional team. Communication, teamwork, adaptability

and leadership are qualities which are essential to ensure women and their

babies receive safe, effective and individualised care.

The role of the midwife is holistic and versatile: Midwives working in the community

could be providing services in women’s homes, local clinics, children’s centers

and GP surgeries. If they work in hospitals, they can be in antenatal services,

fetal medicine, triage/ pregnancy assessment unit, the labour ward, birth center,

postnatal ward and neonatal unit.

The opportunities for progression within midwifery come in many guises which

include specialist areas, such as drugs and alcohol, sonography, mental health,

bereavement, diabetes, public health, research, teaching, clinical education.

Progression can also be more operational, for example senior midwife, matron and

management.

Entry Requirements:GCSE | 8 GCSEs at grade A-C (including English Language and Literature,

Mathematics and a Science subject) or equivalent.

A levels or equivalent | 3 A levels (grades of A, B, B), with Biology being one of

the preferred subjects.

University | Undergraduate Midwifery Degree.

Note: May differ depending on the university.

USEFUL LINKS:www.nmc-uk.org

www.rcn.org.uk

www.healthcareers.nhs.uk/explore-roles/midwifery

14

theatre practiceTheatre Practitioners are an important part of the operating department

team, working with surgeons, anaesthetists and theatre nurses to

help ensure every operation is as safe and effective as possible. They

need a broad knowledge and skills base, including management and

communication skills, and will be involved with the assessment, delivery and

evaluation of peri-operative care.

Main Responsibilities:• Ensuring all patients, family and carers are at the centre of everything you

do. You will act as a patient advocate, to assess, plan, deliver and evaluate

individualised care.

• Provide skilled specialist assistance in the delivery of direct and indirect patient

care throughout the Operating Department.

• To participate as an integral member of the theatre/recovery team.



A levels or equivalent | Three A levels or an approved access course.

University | Registered Nurse- BSc(Hons)/BN(Hons) or DipHE – 2 years (HNDs DipHEs

and Foundation Degrees) or BSc(Hons) Operating Department Practitioner - 3 years.

It is essential that you contact the individual higher education institution to check

their specific entry requirements.

USEFUL LINKS:www.afpp.org.uk/home


allied-health-professions/operating-department-practitioner

15

ACTIVITIES WORKerActivities workers are usually based in care homes or day centres, and can be

based in someone’s home or the community. Activities workers organise social

activities for people who need care and support, to help them to take part.

The role might include:• Talking to people about the types of activities they’d like to do

• Organising activities that are tailored to the needs and abilities of individuals as well

as group activities that will bring individuals together.

• Book external suppliers to provide entertainment.

There are also some specific skills needed to work in this role. These include:

• The ability to motivate people

• Good organisational skills

• Digital skills to research and book activities online

• Time management and ability to schedule and plan ahead.

Entry Requirements:GCSE | A-C in English and Mathematics

Level 2 or 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care, which can be completed whilst

performing the role.

USEFUL LINKS:www.skillsforcare.org.uk/Careers-in-care/Job-roles/Roles/Activities-worker.aspx

16

PathologyPathology provides an understanding of the process of disease. Pathology is

multidisciplinary and has five main specialties which have further subspecialties

embedded within them. A pathology career offers a great range of variety and

combines clinical and laboratory work as well as offering scope for excellent

opportunities within research. Whichever branch of pathology you are interested

in, all jobs associated within pathology will require a very broad and detailed

knowledge of medicine.

Chemical Pathology | Investigation of biochemical basis of disease processes with

particular emphasis on metabolic diseases.

Haematology | Active part in every stage of patient’s assessment from initial

clinical visit to laboratory assessment/diagnosis to treatment.

Histopathology | Microscopic examination of tissues taken, these are assessed for

the purpose of diagnosis, prognosis and directing appropriate treatment.

Microbiology and Virology | Laboratory based specialty which deals with the

diagnosis, management and control of infections (viral, bacterial, fungal and

parasitic) in both hospital and general practice.

Immunology | Involved in the study diagnosis and management of conditions

involving the immune system.

Training pathway:On successful completion of the Foundation Programme doctors can competitively apply

for run-through posts in Chemical Pathology, Histopathology, Medical Microbiology and

Virology. Upon successful completion of the Certificate of Completion of Training (CCT) and

having passed college exams doctors can then apply for consultant posts.

Haematology and Immunology are uncoupled specialties and the route into these requires

two years of core medical training. After successful completion of the training and passing

the MRCP Part 1 exam, trainees would then apply to specialty training in these fields.

Useful Links:www.rcpath.org/discover-pathology/what-is-pathology.html

www.healthcareers.nhs.uk/explore-roles/doctors/roles-doctors/pathology

17

apprenticeshipsApprenticeships provide routes into a variety of careers including many in

the Health and Social Care sector. They offer opportunities to earn, learn and

achieve nationally recognised qualifications at the same time.

The Health and Social Care sector sees apprentices as means to:

• Develop the skills of local people

• Bring people into the workforce

• Harness fresh, new talent

• Involve the local community in the delivery of local services

• Train the organisation’s current workforce

• Grow the workforce for the future

USEFUL LINKS:www.apprenticeships.org.uk

Business and Administration

Customer Service

Health and Social Care

Accountancy (AAT)

Pharmacy Service Skills

18

clinical psychology

Anaesthetics Child and Adolescent Health

Health Centres Social Services

Community Mental Health Teams

A clinical psychologist treats people whose thought patterns and behaviour have

become a threat to their own or others’ wellbeing. They diagnose, assess and

provide treatment for people with a wide range of conditions such as depression,

eating disorders, addiction.

Psychology is the study of how people think and behave. It is a combination of science and

practice. In interviews, using direct observation and techniques such as psychometric testing.

You would make an assessment of a patient’s problems during an interview by using direct

observation and techniques. You would apply your skills and scientific knowledge to bring

about change for the better.

WORKING AS A CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST:Clinical psychologists work largely in Health and Social Care settings, including:

They will often work alongside other professionals, including doctors, nurses, social workers,

occupational therapists and physiotherapists.



A levels | 3 A levels or an approved access course.

University | Undergraduate degree in Psychology that is accredited by the British

Psychological Society (BPS) and that leads to Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC)

with BPS. Postgraduate training - doctorate in Clinical Psychology degree 3 years full time,

Upper Second Class degree - dependent on university.

USEFUL LINKS:www.hcpc-uk.org.uk

www.healthcareers.nhs.uk/explore-roles

19

medicine

Anaesthetics Obstetrics & Gynaecology Clinical Oncology

Opthalmology Paediatrics Emergency Medicine

Pathology Psychiatry General Practice (GP)

Radiology Surgery Medicine - General & Specialties

Medicine is about improving people’s lives - treating diseases and illnesses,

providing advice and reassurance and seeing the effects of both ill health and

good health from the patient’s point of view. You have to examine the symptoms

presented by a patient and consider a range of possible diagnoses. You must test

your diagnosis, decide on the best course of treatment and monitor progress.

This demands an enquiring mind, the capacity to acquire and maintain high levels

of knowledge which has to be constantly up-to-date, and the ability to relate to

people as individuals, each with their own health needs.

Once general medical training has been completed, further specialty training can

be undertaken, after which doctors can apply for a consultant post. There is a large

variety of specialties. Each has its own college or faculty that sets standards and

needs membership in order to practice.

Here are just some of the few specialities in medicine:



A levels | High grades - 3 A levels including Chemistry, Biology and Physics. For those

without Science subjects at A Level, it is possible to undertake an additional pre-medical year

at some universities.

University | Undergraduate course leading to Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery - 5 years,

dependent on university. This will lead to the following qualifications - MBBS; MBBS/ BSc;

MBChB; MBBCh; BMBS. Some medical schools require applicants to have passed assessment

tests such as UKCAT.

USEFUL LINKS:www.healthcareers.nhs.uk/explore-roles/doctors

20

HUMAN RESOURCESThe Human Resources department deals with everything relating to the

employment of staff. You will be involved in aspects such as recruitment, payroll,

HR investigations and establishing new local and national employment policies. An

important part of the job is understanding employment law and working closely with

professional bodies and trade unions.

Typical Job Roles:

Entry Requirements:Entry Requirements vary depending on the job role, and could include the following:

GCSE | Minimum of five GCSEs at grade C or above (including English Language and


A levels | 3 A levels

University | There are courses offered at University for Human Resource Management (for

which A levels or equivalent qualifications are usually required). Incorporating the study of CIPD

qualification is usually required for more senior roles, and roles such as Assistant HR Director

may require a Master in Business Administration (MBA).

The Health and Social Care sector offers the opportunity to develop while working within HR

services encouraging you to start your career with us.

USEFUL LINKS:www.cipd.co.uk

www.healthcareers.nhs.uk/explore-roles/wider-healthcare-team/roles-wider-

healthcare-team/corporate-services/human-resources-staff

Human Resources Assistants Recruitment Assistants

Payroll Administrators Workforce Information Officers

HR Advisors Learning & Development Advisors

HR Managers HR Directors

21

facilitiesEstates and facilities look after the places where care is delivered, both the buildings

themselves and the systems that keep them running. Facilities managers ensure that

the services that patients need during their stay in hospital are available and meet

the required standards.

Here are some of the services you can work in:• Catering - Roles in catering include preparing and delivering meals to patients, serving

food and maintaining high standards in the kitchen. More senior roles range from day to

day running of catering departments to responsibility for a trust’s entire catering service.

• Cleaning - You will help keep the hospital environment safe and clean for patients,

visitors and staff. In a management role, you’ll plan the work and organise the teams.

• Environmental services - You will help to keep trust grounds green and attractive for

patients, visitors and staff.

• Caretakers - As a caretaker you could be disposing of clinical and other waste, moving

furniture and equipment as needed and supervising car parks.

• Engineers - In this role you will manage hospital maintenance programmes – from

heating systems to preparing important machinery.

• Estate Technicians - Technicians test and maintain vital specialist equipment, such as

sterilisers, fire alarms and intruder alarms. In an emergency, you might be called out to a

patient’s home to test or repair an essential medical device.

• Housekeepers - You will work with senior nurses to make sure wards are clean, safe and

welcoming for patients and visitors. Some also supervise patient transport and clerical and

linen services.

• Laundry Managers/Assistants - No hospital can function without a first class laundry

service. It is essential for patients’ comfort and hygiene. Laundry managers ensure that

supplies of spotlessly clean linen are available when and where they are needed.

Entry Requirements: Entry requirements vary dependent on the role and in many cases on-the-job training is

offered.

USEFUL LINKS:www.healthcareers.nhs.uk/explore-roles/management/roles-management/

operational-management/facilities-management

22

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPYOccupational Therapists help people to come to terms with physical, physiological

and social difficulties caused by illness, injury or disability by enabling them to

lead fuller, more independent lives. This profession plays an important role in the

shift from hospital to home and community care for the patient.

The roleBeing a registered Occupational Therapist takes patience, ingenuity, determination,

common sense, a sound knowledge base and enthusiasm. Most of all, it requires an

interest in working closely with people to enable them to lead full and satisfying lives as

independently as possible.

What will you do?You will start by assessing what a new client is able to do and and prepare a treatment

plan that describes the support they need. You’ll build a rounded picture of each patient’s

abilities and circumstances so that they can live as independently as possible. For example,

you could be helping a recovering stroke patient to use cutlery again, restoring confidence

in social situations and making sure that the patient’s home environment matches his or

her needs.




University | Undergraduate BSc(Hons) Occupational Therapy or an approved postgraduate

qualification if you already have a degree.

USEFUL LINKS:www.cot.co.uk/ot-helps-you/what-occupational-therapy

www.hpc-uk.org


health-professions/occupational-therapist

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dieteticsDietitians make sense of how food affects us. They provide practical information to

promote healthy eating and help in the treatment of disease. Much of their work

is with patients who need special diets because of eating disorders, kidney or liver

problems, cancer or diabetes, or after a major surgery.

WHAT WILL YOU DO?Dietitians work in hospitals or are based in community healthcare teams. You will be working

in collaboration with doctors, nurses and other health care professionals to support patients

whose quality of life is linked closely with their diet. You will be assessing their needs,

developing an appropriate diet and advising on how to lead a healthier lifestyle.

For example:

• A patient may have difficulty swallowing so you will have to devise a diet that enables him

or her to get sufficient calories and protein in a form that can be digested.

• You may be treating a patient whose symptoms are triggered or increased by eating

particular foods so you’ll need to plan a diet that avoids these foods.

• You might be supporting people who are unable to eat at all after major surgery or

serious injury.

It is your job to ensure they continue to receive the nutrition and information they need.



A levels or equivalent | 2/3 A levels, preferably Chemistry and another Science subject such

as Biology or Mathematics or equivalent.

University | 4 year university based course leading to a BSc Honours in Nutrition and

Dietetics. Once completed and passed a recognised course, you will then be eligible for

registration with the Health Care Professions Council.

USEFUL LINKS:www.rcplondon.ac.uk


health-professions/dietitian

24

CARE HOME MANAGEMENTCare Home Managers lead a team of care workers and, or manage a care service.

It’s their job to ensure the organisation, and everyone working in it provide high

quality care and support.

There are lots of different management levels in social care including:• First line managers such as service managers or residential unit managers

• Middle managers such as assistant director or department head

• Senior managers such as service director or chief executive.

Managers can work in any social care setting including care homes, supported

living flats, in the community, hospices or local authorities.

There are some specific skills needed to work in this role. These include:• Strong leadership skills and the ability to motivate others

• The ability to think strategically to develop your organisation

• Good project management and organisational skills

Entry Requirements:A background and experience in working in a social care or health role is vital in order to

progress to a managerial role.

The core qualification for social care managers is the Level 5 Diploma in Leadership in

Health and Social Care, which can be completed on the job.

USEFUL LINKS:www.skillsforcare.org.uk/Careers-in-care/Job-roles/Roles/Manager.aspx

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Orthoptics Orthoptists assess and treat patients of all ages who have problems with

eye movement and coordination, such as a lazy eye (amblyopia), squint

(strabismus), cataract, stroke, retinal disease or even a neurological disorder.

A career in orthoptics requires an in-depth understanding of how the eye and brain

work, combined with the ability to work with people of all ages, including young

children. You will be working in hospital clinics and community health centres, and

may also go into schools to conduct vision assessments.

CAREER PROSPECTS:This profession offers a lot of variety and enormous opportunities for career

development, such as:

• Progression to senior, head and consultant orthoptist

• Teach undergraduates students on clinical placement

• Management post

• Clinical research




University | To practice as an orthoptist, you must be registered with the Health and

Care Professions Council (HCPC). You must successfully complete an HCPC-approved

programme in orthoptics. B.Med. Sci(Hons) or BSc(Hons) Orthoptics, 3-4 years, only

available at a small number of universities in the UK.

USEFUL LINKS:www.orthoptics.org.uk

www.healthcareers.nhs.uk/explore-roles

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PODIATRYPodiatrists can assess, diagnose, treat and advise on foot problems for adults

and children. This can be routine foot care such as corn, hard skin and nail care

or prevention and treatment of people at higher risk of foot problems such as

those with diabetes. It can also include assessment of foot pain and how foot

function contributes to this, or how a person’s feet can cause pain in other

areas of the body. Treatments can include stretching advice, orthotics (insoles)

or injections. A Podiatrist is also trained in minor surgery for Ingrowing

toenails. Podiatrists also employ in-house trained Podiatry Assistants who

support them in minor surgery and provide nail care to patients.

What will you do?A Podiatrist can work in a clinic or sometimes at a patient’s home. You will also provide

a service working with Consultants within a hospital setting. A career in podiatry can

be very varied and there are opportunities for further training and career progression.

Entry Requirements:To practice you must be registered with the Health Care and Professions Council

(HCPC) which requires you to have successfully completed an HCPC approved degree

(BSc) in Podiatry. There are 13 Schools of Podiatry across the UK.

A Levels or equivalent | a Science subject or an approved access course and five

GCSEs or equivalent; including Mathematics and English.

University | Undergraduate degree in Podiatry.

Useful linkswww.scpod.org


allied-health-professions/podiatrist

www.careersinpodiatry.com/how-to-become-a-podiatrist

27

VOLUNTEERINGBecoming a volunteer can be a life changing opportunity for individuals. It

enables individuals to contribute to their local community and employers

whilst gaining employability and life skills. Volunteers can decide how much

time they would like to give to volunteering and decide which services,

charities and employers they would like to be involved with.

On-the-job training is provided with most providers, as well as orientation to

enable volunteers to maximise the experience for volunteers, employers and

service users.

Some of the benefits of becoming a volunteer are:• Gain employability skills which can be transferrable

• Increase your self-confidence

• Improve your communication skills

• Building a personal portfolio

• Meet people from various cultural and social backgrounds

• Provides a sense of purpose

• Build a personal portfolio

• Get the job you want

• Make new friends

• Help build your community

And many, many more.

Useful linkwww.helpguide.org/articles/healthy-living/volunteering-and-its-surprising-

benefits.htm

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where are you right now?Here are some other things you can be doing dependent on where you are right now:

Where are you now? What should you do now? Who can help?

Studying GCSEs?

Studying for A levels or another course at your school or local college

GCSEs plus:

• If you need to study a particular degree, investigate which universities offer it.

• Investigate any further qualifications you might need for your chosen role.

Subject TeachersYour careers adviserUCASHealth and Social CareProfessional Bodies NHS Jobs National Careers Service

At university University careers service Health and Social Care Professional Bodies NHS Jobs

Looking for a new career A levels plus:

• Find out if you will need to retain before you apply for new roles or if Health and Social Care will train you whilst your working.

Careers Service (You may have to pay for this service) Professional BodiesJobcentre Plus UCAS National Careers Service

• Check what your likely exam grades/results will be.

• Explore routes into your chosen career- Will you need a degree or other qualifications or will Health and Social Care train you on-the-job?

• Are there particular skills or experience that will improve your chances?

• Enquire about volunteering or work experience.

• Find out if you need any specific A levels or equivalent qualifications.

Subject TeachersYour careers adviserHealth and Social Care Professional Bodies Apprenticeship website

A levels plus:

• It is vital to check which qualifications are preferred by your favourite institute of higher education.

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Notes:

www.hcpc-uk.co.uk

www.nhscareers.nhs.uk

www.skillsforcare.org.uk/Careers-in-care/job-roles

www.stepintothenhs.nhs.uk

www.joinedupcarederbyshire.co.uk/jobs-and-careers

www.joinedupcarederbyshire.co.uk/jobs-and-careers

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health and social care careers · careers. 1 introduction 2 pharmacy 3 social work 4 physiotherapy...

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