BANK - Pharmacy Assistant
Construction of the new integrated critical care unit was completed in 2018, extension of a Neonatal Unit and an approved plan to build a brand new, state of the art Emergency Department which commenced in 2021
We provide high quality, friendly and effective community health services from multiple sites covering Walsall. Our multidisciplinary services include rapid response and homebased care, so that those with long term conditions and the frail elderly can remain in their own homes.
We are recommended by colleagues as a place to work which is supported by the trusts values to work as part of a team, being respectful, compassionate and professional. We are committed to investing in our workforce
Following our recent CQC visit the Trust was rated as outstanding for care and this has been recognised by NHS Improvement.
The work we do is highly rewarding, and in addition to an attractive salary, we offer a valuable range of benefits, including: salary sacrifice scheme; car leasing scheme; on-site staff accommodation (subject to availability); the ability to retain your NHS pension (where applicable) or the opportunity to join an alternative scheme; and the opportunity to develop and implement your expertise in an encouraging yet challenging environment
We would particularly welcome applications from people from a Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic background and from people with a disability; these groups are currently under-represented at senior level, we value diversity within our Trust and are working to achieve equality in our recruitment.
COVID-19 vaccination remains the best way to protect yourself, your family, your colleagues and of course our patients from the virus when working in our healthcare settings. Whilst COVID-19 vaccination is not a condition of employment at this time, we do encourage our staff to get vaccinated.We will be checking the vaccination status of all new starters so that we can manage individual and environmental risks, and so that we can support those who may be undecided about vaccination. If you are unvaccinated there is helpful advice and information at COVID-19 Vaccination | How to access your vaccine in the Black Country and West Birmingham (blackcountryandwestbirmccg.nhs.uk) where you can also find out more about how to access vaccination.
There is a current Government consultation underway which will determine whether some new starters may need to be vaccinated.
Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust is proud to be part of the Armed Forces Covenant. The Trust currently holds the Bronze Award which underlines the Trust’s commitment to supporting the Armed Forces Community. As an organisation, we are aiming to achieve the next level Silver award, with our sights firmly on Gold.
RESPECT - COMPASSION - TEAMWORK - PROFESSIONALISM
Job overview
The role of the Pharmacy Assistant is continually developing; therefore the successful applicant will be required have an NVQ level 2 in Pharmacy Services. This qualification will support the individual to carry out the main duties for this post with additional in house training.Your personal development needs will be identified through an annual individual performance review.
Main duties of the job
Main rotational duties include dispensing and labelling prescriptions for patients, using the automated medicines cabinet to dispense from at ward level and replenishment of stocks for the cabinets, entering data onto computer systems such as the pharmacy and ward orders, using the prescription tracking system, dispensing using the robot, assisting with stock management and stock takes and working in pharmacy procurement and distribution (stores).You will supply stock items to wards via a topping up system and carry out ward storage audits and other associated tasks. Your first rotation will start in pharmacy distribution.
Applicants must have a GCSE in English and Mathematics Grade C or above (or equivalent), have keyboard skills and be able to handle stock on a routine basis. Applicants must also have experience in dispensing and labelling medicines, be customer focused and be keen to learn, be hardworking and able to work under pressure during busy periods.Experience of working or have worked in a pharmacy is required. We encourage community and hospital pharmacy assistants with experience to apply.
A flexible approach to the above duties is required, together with good communication and interpersonal skills, ability to prioritise your workload have initiative and work as part of a team with other healthcare professionals, work on your own when necessary and follow instructions.
Working for our organisation
Successful candidates will support the Pharmacy Technical Managers in delivering high quality, safe and effective pharmacy services in accordance to the Trust’s values and its promises and standards to patients and colleagues. You will be directed by Pharmacists and Pharmacy Technicians in your daily work.
Shortlisted candidates will be required to take an assessment test at interview.
Detailed job description and main responsibilities
Candidates should be aware that, regardless of country of origin, their ability to communicate in written and spoken English to the standard required to carry out the post, will be assessed during the selection process.
Please note that we may close this vacancy early if we receive a high volume of applicants therefore we advise that you complete your application early.
Person specification
Qualifications
Essential criteria- GCSE English and Maths, Grade C or equivalent
Experience
Essential criteria- Experience of pharmacy/ stores/ hospital environment
- Experience of dispensing
- Experience of reception duties
- Experience of handling cash
Skills
Essential criteria- Able to communicate well face to face and in writing
- Good telephone manner
Please note your application will be transferred from the NHS Jobs system to internal Walsall Healthcare Trac System. All correspondence will be sent via Trac
Following our recent CQC visit the Trust was rated as outstanding for care and this has been recognised by NHS Improvement.
** Please Note that this post may be identified as suitable and a preference given for Internal at Risk Employees**
We would particularly welcome applications from people from a Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic background and from people with a disability; these groups are currently under-represented at senior level, we value diversity within our Trust and are working to achieve equality in our recruitment.
IMPORTANT NOTE ON COMPLETION OF REFERENCE SECTION OF APPLICATION FORM
References from current and previous employers will be sought and must cover a minimum of 3 years employment. When completing the reference section of your application form, please give the address, telephone number and work email address of each of your current/previous line managers that cover this period.Failure to complete this section may result in your application not being processed.
Please review the attached Job description and person specification carefully before applying to ensure that you meet the essential job requirements.
Candidates should be aware that, regardless of country of origin, their ability to communicate in written and spoken English to the standard required to carry out the post, will be assessed during the selection process.
Referee email addresses should be provided on your application form.
Following the closing date, if you have not heard from us within 6 weeks you may assume your application has been unsuccessful.
We reserve the right to close this job early. Interested applicants are therefore advised to apply as early as possible.
If a large number of applicants meet the essential criteria then random selection will be applied.
We are committed to operating flexible working practices wherever possible and committed to equal opportunities.