At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us as a Trainee Diabetic Eye Screener/Grader, learning to prevent blindness through screening.
- Company: Be part of East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust, dedicated to improving health in our community.
- Benefits: Enjoy staff development, NHS pension, onsite nurseries, and psychological support.
- Other info: Evening and weekend work required; training includes a two-year diploma.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on patients' lives while gaining valuable skills in healthcare.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed; just bring your enthusiasm for healthcare and communication skills.
Overview
The East Sussex NHS Diabetic Eye Screening Programme is looking for candidates who are interested in training towards being a Diabetic Eye Screener Grader or someone who is already a qualified Screener and/ or Grader.
To provide a diabetic eye screening service to people with diabetes in East Sussex to prevent new blindness by means of digital photography using both fundus and OCT cameras.
Training
The training involves completion of a two year diploma including on the job support and training. You will be based at Bexhill Hospital and will travel to various healthcare settings within East Sussex undertaking screening clinics.
Responsibilities
- You will work both as part of a team and independently in developing and delivering the programme and must present excellent communication skills.
- You will be accountable in carrying out clinical duties associated with the role and are expected to work in line with National Quality Assurance Standards.
- A variety of essential tasks alongside screening and grading will be required including data collection and analysis, liaising with a number of internal and external contacts and involvement in service improvement projects.
- The trainee Screener/Grader is a key member of the team responsible for the effective delivery of a diabetic eye screening and grading service and once accredited will be involved in the diagnostic identification of patients with sight threatening diabetic retinopathy.
- You will develop and maintain a high degree of personal expertise in the screening and grading process, undertaking both fundus and OCT grading.
- The post is at times lone working and requires concentration for long periods, constantly screening patients or grading images in a darkened room.
Qualifications
To apply either you are interested in training towards being a Diabetic Eye Screener/Grader or you are already a qualified Screener and/or Grader. The successful applicant will work towards qualification in the Diploma for Health Screening.
Schedule
Post holder will be required to work some evening and weekend clinics.
Benefits
- Staff development
- Enrolment in the NHS pension scheme
- Auto-enrolment to our Temporary Workforce Service
- Access to onsite nurseries, staff restaurants and accommodation
- Internal Occupational Health department
- Free psychological support through our confidential Employee Assistance Programme
- Onsite parking available from only £30 a year
Contact
For further information regarding the post please contact Emma Payne, Diabetic Eye Screening Programme Manager on 0300 1314500 ext. 770121 or email emma.payne1@nhs.net.
Statement on the Use of AI
We value the individuality that each candidate brings to the application process. While we understand that AI tools are widely available, we strongly discourage applicants from using AI-generated content when applying for jobs with us. We believe that your application should reflect your true skills, experiences, and motivations, which are best conveyed through your own words and unique perspective.
Using AI for your application may not accurately represent your knowledge, skills, and experience and may result in a disconnect between your qualifications and our assessment of your application.
We encourage applicants to take the time to thoughtfully complete their applications; by doing so, you allow us to better understand your true potential and ensure a fair and transparent evaluation of your application. Over reliance on AI-generated content may diminish your chance of success.
Application deadline
This advert closes on Thursday 18 Dec 2025.
Trainee Diabetic Eye Screener/Grader | East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust in Bexhill-on-Sea employer: ESHT
East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises staff development and well-being. With access to comprehensive benefits such as the NHS pension scheme, psychological support, and opportunities for professional growth through a structured training programme, employees are empowered to thrive in their roles. Working at Bexhill Hospital not only provides a chance to make a meaningful impact on community health but also fosters a collaborative environment where teamwork and individual contributions are valued.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee Diabetic Eye Screener/Grader | East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust in Bexhill-on-Sea
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Diabetic Eye Screening Programme and its objectives. Understanding the importance of preventing blindness through early detection will help you convey your enthusiasm for the role during any discussions or interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current professionals in the field, especially those working within the East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust. Engaging with them can provide insights into the role and may even lead to valuable recommendations when applying.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your communication skills and teamwork experience. Since the role involves liaising with various contacts and working both independently and as part of a team, having specific examples ready will demonstrate your suitability.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your commitment to continuous learning and improvement. Mention any relevant training or courses you've undertaken, as well as your willingness to engage in the two-year diploma programme, which is crucial for this position.
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee Diabetic Eye Screener/Grader | East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust in Bexhill-on-Sea
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role:Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the responsibilities and requirements of the Trainee Diabetic Eye Screener/Grader position. Highlight your understanding of the role in your application.
Tailor Your CV:Customise your CV to reflect relevant experiences and skills that align with the job. Emphasise any previous healthcare experience, communication skills, and your enthusiasm for diabetic eye screening.
Craft a Personal Statement:Write a compelling personal statement that showcases your motivation for applying. Discuss your interest in diabetic eye screening and how you plan to contribute to the East Sussex NHS Diabetic Eye Screening Programme.
Proofread Your Application:Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A well-presented application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at ESHT
✨Show Your Passion for Diabetic Eye Screening
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for a career in diabetic eye screening during the interview. Talk about why you are interested in this field and how you see yourself contributing to the programme's goals.
✨Demonstrate Excellent Communication Skills
Since the role requires liaising with various internal and external contacts, be prepared to showcase your communication skills. You might want to provide examples of how you've effectively communicated in previous roles or situations.
✨Prepare for Clinical Scenarios
As the position involves clinical duties, it’s wise to prepare for questions related to clinical scenarios. Brush up on your knowledge of diabetic retinopathy and be ready to discuss how you would handle specific situations that may arise during screenings.
✨Highlight Your Teamwork and Independence
The role requires both teamwork and the ability to work independently. Be ready to share experiences where you successfully collaborated with a team as well as instances where you took initiative and worked alone, especially in high-pressure situations.