At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide genetic counselling for pregnant women and couples with sickle cell and thalassaemia.
- Company: Join Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, a leading healthcare provider in London.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, flexible working options, and opportunities for professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on patients' lives while working in a supportive and innovative environment.
- Qualifications: Must be a Registered General Nurse with a certificate in counselling and relevant experience.
- Other info: Applications from diverse backgrounds are encouraged; we value equality and inclusivity.
The predicted salary is between 38500 - 45000 £ per year.
Guy’s and St Thomas’ is among the UK’s busiest and most successful NHS foundation trusts. We provide a full range of hospital and community services for people in south London and as well as specialist care for patients from further afield including cancer, renal, orthopaedic, respiratory and cardiovascular services.
The post holder will work as part of an integrated team, in partnership with carers and other providers of health and social care to develop and deliver genetic counselling for pregnant women and couples with sickle cell and thalassaemic conditions/carriers in Lambeth, Southwark and Lewisham. The post-holder will provide genetic counselling to support the antenatal, neonatal and opportunistic screening programmes. The post will include clinical practice, teaching and training, health promotion, research and audit.
Main duties of the job:
- Receive referrals from individuals, clinicians laboratories and other professionals and agencies.
- Deliver expert health advice and genetic counselling to individuals with or ‘at risk’ of having a haemoglobinopathy.
- Provide nurse-led genetic counselling clinic sessions at the South East London Sickle Cell/Thalassaemia Centre, and other local Health Centres/GP Practices, giving easy access to users.
- Promote integrated care pathways.
- Enable individuals with sickle cell and thalassaemic conditions to improve their health and reduce inequalities.
- Practice in a cost aware manner.
Person specification:
- Registered General Nurse (RGN).
- Certificate in Counselling.
- Evidence of professional development.
- Understanding of other haemoglobinopathies so as to provide support and counselling.
- Phlebotomy (or willingness to undertake relevant training).
- Experience of caring for individuals with haemoglobinopathies in a community setting.
- Experience of delivering teaching and training packages to different disciplines.
Skills/Knowledge/Ability:
- Clean, valid motor vehicle driving licence.
- Phlebotomy (or willingness to undertake relevant training).
- ENB No8 Care and Management of Individuals with Sickle Cell and Thalassaemia (or willingness to undergo relevant training).
- Certificate in Counselling.
- Pegasus Training (or willingness to undergo training).
- Ability to deal sensitively with patients, relatives and carers.
- Ability to convey contentious/complex information to patients, relatives and carers.
- Understand the requirements of the National Ante Natal and Neonatal Screening Programme Standards and National Standards for Sickle Cell & Thalassaemia.
Guy’s and St Thomas’ celebrates, respects and values the diversity of its staff and patients. We review our policies, procedures and practices to ensure that all employees, patients and carers are treated equitably according to their needs. We are actively committed to ensuring that no one who applies for a job, works or studies at the Trust, or accesses our services is discriminated against on the grounds of race, ethnicity, nationality, disability, religion or belief, age, gender identity, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity/paternity, or marital/civil partnership.
We encourage all prospective applicants to discuss their individual circumstances with the recruiting manager as part of the on-boarding process.
Genetic Nurse Counsellor employer: Guys & St Thomas Hospital
Contact Detail:
Guys & St Thomas Hospital Recruiting Team
olukemi.ajamufua@nhs.net
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Genetic Nurse Counsellor
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific genetic conditions related to sickle cell and thalassaemia. Understanding these conditions will not only enhance your knowledge but also demonstrate your commitment to the role during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field of genetic counselling, especially those working within the NHS. Attend relevant workshops or seminars to make connections that could provide insights or even referrals for the position.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on the latest guidelines and standards for antenatal and neonatal screening programmes. This knowledge will be crucial in demonstrating your expertise and readiness to contribute effectively to the team.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for the interview by practising how to convey complex information clearly and sensitively. Role-playing scenarios with friends or colleagues can help you articulate your thoughts and approach to patient care.
We think you need these skills to ace Genetic Nurse Counsellor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Genetic Nurse Counsellor. Familiarise yourself with the specific duties mentioned in the job description, such as providing genetic counselling and supporting antenatal screening programmes.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience and qualifications that align with the job requirements. Emphasise your nursing background, any counselling certifications, and experience with haemoglobinopathies or community health settings.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for genetic counselling and your commitment to patient care. Use specific examples from your experience to demonstrate how you meet the qualifications outlined in the job description.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial in healthcare roles.
How to prepare for a job interview at Guys & St Thomas Hospital
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you have a solid grasp of what a Genetic Nurse Counsellor does. Familiarise yourself with genetic counselling, especially in relation to sickle cell and thalassaemia. This will help you answer questions confidently and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous experience in nursing and any relevant training you've undertaken. Highlight specific examples where you've provided care or counselling to patients with haemoglobinopathies, as this will show your capability and readiness for the position.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle sensitive situations. Think about how you would approach difficult conversations with patients and their families, and be ready to articulate your thought process.
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Diversity
Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust values diversity and inclusion. Be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to an inclusive environment and support patients from various backgrounds. This shows that you align with the organisation's values.