Healthcare Assistant Jobs in the UK

Day-to-day duties depend on the setting. On a hospital ward you might help patients to wash, dress, eat and move around, make beds, record observations such as temperature, pulse and blood pressure, and keep patients comfortable. In a GP surgery or clinic, HCAs often take blood samples, carry out health checks, record ECGs and prepare treatment rooms. Community HCAs visit patients at home alongside district nursing teams.

You do not usually need a degree to become a healthcare assistant. Employers look for good literacy and numeracy, caring and communication skills, and the ability to stay calm under pressure. Previous experience in care is helpful, and some roles ask for a health and social care qualification, but many employers train new starters and support them through the Care Certificate. An enhanced DBS check is required.

Hospitals run around the clock, so HCA roles often involve early, late, night and weekend shifts. Bank roles let you choose shifts flexibly, while permanent positions offer set hours. In the NHS, healthcare assistants are paid on the Agenda for Change pay bands, and private hospitals and clinics set their own rates.

When applying for NHS roles, read the person specification carefully. It lists essential and desirable criteria, and your supporting statement should show how you meet each one with real examples. Private hospitals, clinics and agencies also recruit HCAs regularly, and agency or bank work can be a flexible way to gain experience across different wards.

Many HCAs go on to become nursing associates, registered nurses or specialist practitioners through apprenticeships and further training. Create a free JobsChance account, upload your CV and apply for healthcare assistant jobs in minutes.