Medicine, Emergency and Critical Care Patient Care Assistant

This review provides an in-depth look at an exciting opportunity for a Patient Care Assistant within a specialized veterinary care setting. This role is designed for individuals passionate about animal welfare and eager to contribute to a high-paced, supportive team.

Opportunity Overview

This position offers a chance to become a vital member of dedicated nursing teams within Emergency, Critical Care, and Medicine departments. You'll work alongside experienced veterinarians, nurses, and students, all united by a shared commitment to exceptional patient care in a dynamic environment. If you thrive under pressure and have a genuine love for animals, this role is an excellent fit.

Key Advantages for Candidates

• Impactful Role: Directly contribute to the recovery and well-being of critically ill and injured animals.
• Team Collaboration: Become part of a supportive and experienced team that values teamwork and shared learning.
• Professional Development: Benefit from comprehensive training and ongoing support, fostering your growth within the animal care field. Access to free in-house Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is a significant advantage for skill enhancement.
• Excellent Benefits Package: The organization offers a compelling rewards package designed to support your overall well-being and work-life balance. This includes:
  • A competitive and attractive pension package.
  • Generous annual leave, providing ample time for rest and personal pursuits (30 days plus bank holidays and concessionary days).
  • Access to on-site amenities such as a café and restaurant, promoting convenience.
  • Complimentary membership to the Fitness and Wellbeing Centre, offering a range of activities like gym, badminton, climbing wall, Zumba, yoga, and Pilates classes.
  • A cycle to work scheme, encouraging sustainable commuting.
  • A free mini-bus service to and from Potters Bar station and Hawkshead Campus, enhancing accessibility.
  • A suite of family-friendly policies, including adoption, maternity, and paternity pay and leave, demonstrating a commitment to supporting employees' family needs.
• Career Growth: While previous experience in an animal care environment is essential, this role provides a strong foundation for those looking to advance their careers in veterinary nursing and patient care.

Key Considerations for Candidates

• Essential Experience: A background in an animal care environment is a mandatory requirement for this position.
• Desirable Qualification: While not essential, an animal care qualification would be beneficial and may strengthen your application.
• Work Schedule: This is a full-time position (35 hours per week) that involves early and late shifts, as well as participation in a weekend rota. Candidates should be prepared for this varied and demanding schedule.
• Core Responsibilities: The role will involve hands-on tasks such as maintaining infection control standards, patient handling, walking, grooming, and feeding. A strong attention to detail and a caring, methodical approach are crucial.
• Team Player Mentality: The ideal candidate will be a friendly, hardworking, caring, and enthusiastic team player, capable of contributing positively to a high-pressure environment.
• Salary Expectation: The salary range for this permanent, full-time position is £26,692 to £27,291 per annum, including London Weighting.

This Patient Care Assistant role presents a significant opportunity for individuals dedicated to animal welfare to develop their skills and career within a respected institution. The combination of challenging work, a supportive team, and an exceptional benefits package makes this a highly attractive prospect for the right candidate.