At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide expert HR advice, manage recruitment, and champion diversity initiatives.
- Company: Join Willen Hospice, a leading provider of palliative care in Milton Keynes.
- Benefits: Enjoy 35 days holiday, pension scheme, and ongoing professional development.
- Other info: Work in a tranquil setting with passionate colleagues dedicated to patient care.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while working in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: 3 years HR experience and CIPD level 5 or equivalent.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Hours: Full Time - 35 hours per week (Part-Time Considered)
About the role
Make a difference through great people and expert HR. We’re looking for a passionate, people‑focused HR professional to join Willen Hospice as our HR Advisor. This is a varied, hands‑on role within our People Services team. As part of the People Services team, you’ll work closely with the Head of People Services, HR Business Partner and wider team to deliver a high-quality operational HR service that directly supports our strategic people agenda. If you’re passionate about HR, thrive in a fast-paced environment, and want to make a real difference to the people who care for our patients, then this could be your perfect next step.
What you’ll do:
- Provide expert advice and guidance to managers on employee relations matters, including absence, disciplinary, grievance and capability, ensuring fair, consistent and legally compliant outcomes.
- Manage end-to-end recruitment and onboarding, utilising cost-effective and inclusive solutions that attract diverse talent.
- Use data, insight and HR systems to maintain accurate records, generate management information and support evidence-based decision making.
- Process payroll information accurately and on time, including mid-year salary reviews and sick pay calculations.
- Champion people initiatives across Diversity, Equality & Inclusion (DEI), wellbeing and employee engagement.
- Contribute to the review and update of HR policies, procedures and practices in line with current employment legislation.
We’re looking for someone who has:
- A minimum 3 years’ experience in a generalist HR advisory role.
- CIPD qualified to level 5, or working towards this, or equivalent demonstrable experience.
- Solid employment law knowledge and practical experience across recruitment, employer relations and operational HR.
- Experience using an HR database and supporting payroll processes.
- Excellent communication, organisational and interpersonal skills, with high levels of empathy and resilience.
Who we are:
Set in the tranquil grounds of Willen Lake, Willen Hospice is the leading provider of specialist palliative care in the Milton Keynes area. We offer round‑the‑clock, expert care to local patients with a life‑limiting illness, both in their own homes and in our In‑Patient Unit. Our passionate staff and volunteers make sure our care is personalised to each patient’s needs and supports their loved ones too. We have a thriving Therapeutic & Wellbeing service providing counselling, physiotherapy, activity groups and more, and a specialist Lymphoedema service. As a registered charity, we raise vital funds through our dedicated Business Development team and our growing portfolio of high street and online shops, to ensure our care stays free of charge.
In return for your skills you can expect:
- A role with purpose – be part of a team delivering outstanding palliative care.
- Supportive and caring environment – work with passionate colleagues.
- Great benefits package – including 35 days’ holiday, contributory pension scheme, enhanced maternity/sick pay, and ongoing professional development.
- Perks and extras – free on‑site parking, subsidised catering, Blue Light Card discounts (with membership), and an Employee Assistance Programme.
Right to work
All candidates must have the right to work in the UK. Please note, we are unable to sponsor work permits or visas.
HR Advisor employer: Willen Hospice
Willen Hospice is an exceptional employer, offering a meaningful role as an HR Advisor within a supportive and passionate team dedicated to providing outstanding palliative care. Located in the serene surroundings of Willen Lake, employees benefit from a generous holiday allowance, a contributory pension scheme, and opportunities for professional development, all while making a real difference in the lives of patients and their families. Join us to thrive in a caring environment that champions diversity, wellbeing, and employee engagement.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land HR Advisor
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the HR field, attend industry events, and join relevant online groups. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culture. Understand their values and how they align with your own. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference at Willen Hospice.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice common HR interview questions with a friend or in front of a mirror. Focus on showcasing your experience in employee relations and recruitment, as well as your passion for DEI initiatives. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and making a real impact in the lives of those we care for.
We think you need these skills to ace HR Advisor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the HR Advisor role. Highlight your relevant experience, especially in employee relations and recruitment, to show us you’re the perfect fit for our team.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Share your passion for HR and how you can make a difference at Willen Hospice. Be genuine and let your personality come through.
Showcase Your Skills:Don’t forget to highlight your communication and organisational skills. We want to see how you’ve used these in past roles, especially in fast-paced environments like ours.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Willen Hospice
✨Know Your HR Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your employment law knowledge and HR best practices. Be ready to discuss specific scenarios where you've provided advice on employee relations matters, as this will show your practical experience and understanding of the role.
✨Showcase Your People Skills
As an HR Advisor, you'll be working closely with managers and employees. Prepare examples that highlight your communication and interpersonal skills. Think about times when you've successfully navigated difficult conversations or resolved conflicts.
✨Be Data Savvy
Familiarise yourself with how to use HR systems and data to support decision-making. Be prepared to discuss how you've used data in previous roles to improve processes or outcomes, especially in recruitment and onboarding.
✨Emphasise Your Passion for DEI
Diversity, Equality, and Inclusion are key aspects of the role. Come armed with ideas on how you can champion these initiatives within the organisation. Share any past experiences where you've contributed to DEI efforts or employee engagement activities.
