Job summary
- Main area
- Neonatal Sister/Charge Nurse
- Grade
- NHS AfC: Band 6
- Contract
- Permanent
- Hours
- Full time
- Part time
- Job ref
- 252-8169038-A
- Employer
- Dartford and Gravesham NHS Trust
- Employer type
- NHS
- Site
- Darent Valley Hospital
- Town
- Dartford
- Salary
- Dependant on experience
- Closing
- 11/11/2026 08:00
Employer heading
Registered Nurse Neonatal B6
NHS AfC: Band 6
Job overview
Please Note:
This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship. Applicants must already hold the right to work in the UK independently, with a visa or immigration status that allows them to fulfil the full duration and type of contract offered. The Trust is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position.
We are seeking an experienced Qualified in Specialty (QIS) Neonatal Nurse to work alongside our Band 6 team. Please note that achievement of Neonatal QIS is an essential requirement for this post and applicants who do not hold QIS will not be eligible for appointment. Candidates must also have a minimum of 2 years' neonatal experience at Band 5 level and at least 1 year of post-QIS experience.
We are an exceptionally busy Special Care Baby Unit with 22 cots, including 3 High Dependency cots and 4 Transitional Care cots. We support one of the busiest delivery suites within the Operational Delivery Network (ODN).
We have received excellent feedback through GIRFT and Peer Review processes and are proud to have achieved Silver Bliss Baby Charter accreditation and Baby Friendly Initiative (BFI) Stage 1 accreditation.
Previous Applicants need not apply
Main duties of the job
The post holder is responsible for coordinating the evidence based assessment of care needs, and carrying out these tasks. The post holder is expected to carry out all relevant forms of care without supervision, and to coordinate training, supervision and mentorship of qualified and unqualified staff, under the guidance of the Senior Sister/Charge nurse. As the designated deputy the post holder is expected to deputise for, manage and coordinate the ward in the absence of the Senior Sister/Charge nurse.
Working for our organisation
We are committed to being an inclusive and diverse employer. We strive to employ people who reflect the communities we serve, and aim to create an inclusive culture where everyone can reach their full potential. Whatever your race, ethnicity, belief, generation, sexual orientation, gender or gender identity, disability or experience, you’ll appreciate the opportunities we give you to work in an inclusive atmosphere. We welcome applications from people of diverse backgrounds, perspectives and experiences to build on the progress we’ve achieved to make our Trust diverse and the best place to work. We celebrate the diversity of thought, viewpoints and ideas that help us overcome challenges and embrace new possibilities. We have signed the Armed Forces Covenant Pledge and have a commitment to the Armed Forces Community.
We are dedicated to using our Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) approach as our shared organisation model of change to enhance our services and ensure excellence in patient care.
If you are considering applying for a role, please be aware that as an NHS Employee you may have contact with vulnerable service users. We strongly encourage that all our staff are vaccinated against COVID-19 and are vaccinated annually against Flu, in order to protect the health and safety of our staff and patients. Your commitment will help us to put the safety and care of our patients first, as well as helping us to protect you and your colleagues.
Detailed job description and main responsibilities
Clinical responsibilities include assessment of care needs and ensuring these are implemented whilst working in partnership with babies and their families. To be a support to families, carers, siblings and colleagues, ensuring any spiritual, psychological and emotional needs are met.
Post holder will ensure the smooth running of the ward, liaising with all members of the multidisciplinary teams to provide adequate discharge planning and support for families.
Follows and adheres to the NMC code of conduct, promotes and maintains a professional appearance and manner at all times in accordance with Trust policy.
Completes all mandatory training as outlined on Engage and by the Senior nursing team, encourages colleagues complete mandatory training and when needed help to deliver training.
Identifies in partnership with the Senior nurse/Charge nurse areas of practice where their role can be extended, to enhance the service provided for babies and their families. Participates in and co-ordinates teaching, research and audit projects.
Person specification
Education and Training
Essential criteria
- Registered Nurse with professional registration and NMC pin
- Educated to degree level in nursing or equivalent experience
- Practice Assessor qualification
- Completion of a Practice Supervisor programme
- Evidence of Continuous Professional Development
- Neonatal QIS
- Newborn Life Support qualification
Desirable criteria
- BFI Training
- Leadership and management
Knowledge and skills
Essential criteria
- Able to demonstrate clinical knowledge, skills and expertise
- Up to date knowledge of current clinical and professional issues
- Strong leadership, decision-making, and organisational skills.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
- Ability to work under pressure and manage complex situations
- Competent in IV administration, cannulation and phlebotomy
- Knowledge of safeguarding children
- Knowledge of infection control.
- Digital Literacy and ability to use NHS IT systems.
- Competent to attend preterm deliveries
Desirable criteria
- Experience in mentoring and training junior staff.
- Knowledge of NHS policies, procedures, and clinical governance frameworks.
- In-depth understanding of FI care
Experience
Essential criteria
- At least 2 years neonatal experience at band 5 and one year post QIS experience
- Experience of using evidence based practice
Desirable criteria
- Experience of being in charge in a neonatal setting
Employer certification / accreditation badges
Applicant requirements
You must have appropriate UK professional registration.
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (Amendment) (England and Wales) Order 2020 and it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service.
Documents to download
Further details / informal visits contact
- Name
- Annette Pope
- Job title
- Neonatal Matron
- Email address
- [email protected]
- Telephone number
- 01322428795
- Additional information
Available during office hours Mon-Fri or contact Walnut Ward to speak to the nurse in charge. An informal visit will be welcomed.
List jobs with Dartford and Gravesham NHS Trust in Nursing and Midwifery or all sectors