Health Care Assistant Job overview
The health care assistant will work under the direction of Therapists maintaining an effective, day-to-day service working alongside the Therapy Team in the Supportive Care Service.
Job purpose is:
- The health Care Assistant will provide a service with the Therapists that will promote physical and functional rehabilitation and the nutritional status of patients.
- The health Care Assistant will work under supervision and assist the Therapist in clinical and administrative duties.
- The health Care Assistant will be delegated routine interventions to be carried out independently, and to progress these interventions within guidelines laid down by the Therapists.
- In addition, the post holder may be required to work in other areas depending on service needs.
Health Care Assistant Main Duties
Working alongside Physiotherapists they will deliver and progress individual or group exercise sessions within an agreed framework, monitor Physiotherapy rehabilitation plans, deliver and promote physiotherapy self-management advice. Working under the supervision of the dietitian they will undertake nutritional screening, monitor nutritional care plans, deliver first line nutritional advice and assist in the delivery of group dietetic sessions. With direction from the Occupational Therapist they will take responsibility for implementing and managing aspects of the Occupational Therapy treatment programme, promote independence, health and well-being and safety in hospital or community settings. To contribute, as part of the team, to the overall aims of the Therapies Services. The post-holder will work independently to an agreed framework and will be responsible and accountable for these tasks.
They may be required to work their normal contracted hours flexibly, in a variety of different working patterns, in response to the needs of the service where they are placed. For example, this could include working their contracted hours as part of a 7-day job plan or working their hours over a pattern that includes extended days and unsocial hours.
The ability to speak Welsh is desirable for this post; English and/or Welsh speakers are equally welcome to apply.
General Questions About Band 4 Healthcare Assistant Roles1. What is a Band 4 Healthcare Assistant?
- Answer: A Band 4 HCA is a skilled support worker in the NHS or private healthcare, positioned on the Agenda for Change pay scale. They perform advanced patient care tasks, such as monitoring vital signs and assisting with clinical procedures, under the supervision of registered professionals.
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2. What are the main responsibilities of a Band 4 HCA?
- Answer: Responsibilities include patient care (e.g., daily activities, vital sign monitoring), limited clinical tasks (e.g., wound care), record keeping, and supporting healthcare teams, often with a focus on specialized areas like respiratory or surgical support.
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3. How does a Band 4 HCA differ from Band 3 or Band 5 roles?
- Answer: Band 4 HCAs have more advanced duties than Band 3 (basic care) but are not fully registered like Band 5 nurses. They require additional training and offer a stepping stone to nursing roles.
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Qualifications and Training4. What qualifications do I need to become a Band 4 HCA?
- Answer: Typically, a Level 3 healthcare qualification (e.g., NVQ, BTEC) or equivalent, plus Band 3 HCA experience, is required. A Foundation Degree in Health or Social Care, often via an NHS apprenticeship, is common.
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5. Is training provided for Band 4 HCA roles?
- Answer: Yes, the NHS offers a two-year Foundation Degree apprenticeship, including on-the-job training and academic study. The Care Certificate and ongoing courses are also provided.
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6. Can I progress from Band 4 to a nursing role?
- Answer: Yes, Band 4 HCAs can advance to Band 5 (staff nurse) by completing a nursing degree apprenticeship or shortened degree, using their experience as a foundation.
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Salary and Benefits7. What is the salary for a Band 4 Healthcare Assistant?
- Answer: Band 4 HCAs earn £28,860–£31,671 per year (2025/26 Agenda for Change rates), with higher pay in London due to high-cost supplements.
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8. What benefits come with a Band 4 HCA job?
- Answer: Benefits include 27 days of annual leave (plus bank holidays), NHS pension scheme, health service discounts, and potential relocation support.
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9. Are there part-time or flexible hours?
- Answer: Yes, roles offer a 37.5-hour week with shift patterns (nights, weekends, early starts), and some flexibility depending on the employer.
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Visa and Eligibility10. Can foreign workers apply for Band 4 HCA jobs?
- Answer: Yes, non-UK citizens can apply if sponsored under the Skilled Worker Visa, provided they meet the £26,200 minimum salary threshold and have relevant qualifications. The NHS often sponsors eligible candidates.
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11. What visa do I need as a foreign Band 4 HCA?
- Answer: The Skilled Worker Visa is required, with employers providing a Certificate of Sponsorship. Costs include £610–£1,408 (visa fee) and £1,035/year (Immigration Health Surcharge).
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Job Search and Application12. Where can I find Band 4 HCA jobs?
- Answer: Check NHS Jobs (jobs.nhs.uk), Indeed UK, Reed.co.uk, or contact local trusts directly. Search for “Band 4 Healthcare Assistant” or “NHS HCA roles.”
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13. What tips can help me land a Band 4 HCA role?
- Answer: Tailor your CV with healthcare experience, complete the Care Certificate, network on LinkedIn, and apply early, as demand is high in 2025.
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14. Is experience required for Band 4 HCA positions?
- Answer: Yes, prior experience as a Band 3 HCA or equivalent (e.g., 1–2 years) is typically required, though apprenticeships can provide an entry route.
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Career and Challenges15. What are the career prospects for Band 4 HCAs?
- Answer: Prospects include advancing to Band 5 nursing, specializing as a senior assistant practitioner, or moving into allied health roles with further training.
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16. What challenges might I face as a Band 4 HCA?
- Answer: Challenges include shift work, emotional demands of patient care, and competition for roles. Support from NHS induction programs can help.
To apply for this job please visit apps.trac.jobs.