Ward Manager - Paediatric Unit in Dorchester

Ward Lead position (Band 7) on the general paediatric ward at Dorset County Hospital. The ward provides care for Children and Young People up to 18 years, across medical, surgical and psychological needs. The ward comprises a fourteen bedded inpatient area (including 3 high observation beds), Paediatric Assessment Unit and Paediatric Day Surgery. Core hours are Monday to Friday with flexibility to meet service needs, including working with staff on diverse shift patterns.

Responsibilities

• Take responsibility for the daily clinical, operational and quality management of all clinical areas within acute paediatrics.
• Collaborate with the multi-disciplinary team to deliver patient-centred outcomes and high standards of care.
• Provide leadership and professional development for nursing and support workers within the service; work with the senior paediatric team to develop best practice and ensure consistency across the paediatric unit.
• With the senior nursing team and Matrons, provide senior nursing leadership for the unit.
• Manage the clinical area to ensure adherence to agreed protocols, policies and procedures; deliver services to the defined standard and meet organisational and national targets.
• Participate in audit and research, developing research-based practices.

About the Trust

At Dorset County Hospital NHS Foundation Trust (DCHFT), the focus is on patient care and creating a fair, inclusive environment for staff. The Trust values integrity, respect, teamwork and excellence, and seeks applicants from all under-represented groups.

Qualifications and Requirements

Essential

• Degree/Diploma in Nursing or equivalent experience
• Current NMC Registration (RN Child)
• Practice Supervisor and Assessor or equivalent
• Evidence of leadership, management qualification or relevant experience

Desirable

• Master's level study
• Teaching qualification or relevant experience

Knowledge & Experience

• Experienced paediatric nurse with acute clinical skills
• Ability to lead, train and motivate a team
• Evidence of Continuous Professional Development including clinical competencies, leadership and management
• Understanding of clinical governance and ability to assess and monitor systems
• Experience in service improvement, including audit, benchmarking and standards review

Desirable

• Evidence of guideline or policy development
• Post-registration teaching experience
• Knowledge of NHS legislation including clinical governance, COSHH, H&S, Infection Prevention and Control, Manual Handling, confidentiality
• Understanding of budget management

Skills & Abilities

• Excellent communication (verbal, non-verbal and written)
• Ability to lead a team, including performance management and staff development
• Ability to assess, plan, implement and evaluate nursing care
• Adaptability to change and ability to manage pressurised clinical situations
• Patient- and family-centered care focus
• Ability to work under pressure and manage challenging situations professionally
• Data analysis and written reporting skills
• Strong time management and organisational skills; initiative and self-direction

Additional Information

Contract: Permanent; Working pattern: Part-time; Salary: £47,810 to £54,710 per annum (pro rata); Pay scheme: Agenda for Change; Location: Dorset County Hospital, Williams Avenue, Dorchester DT1 2JY. Job reference: 405-26-NM019PAED. Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check is required. This post is eligible for Skilled Worker sponsorship where applicable. UK registration with the appropriate professional body is required.

For further information about the employer, visit Dorset County Hospital NHS Foundation Trust’s website.