Job summary
An exciting opportunity has arisen to join the team as a Band 6 Maternity Junior Ward Sister on the Maternity Observation Ward for a twelve-month development opportunity. This is an ideal opportunity for any midwife aspiring to become a midwifery manager.
We are looking for a clinically credible Midwife with a broad range of midwifery experience in the acute setting. You will need to be self-motivated, dynamic, enthusiastic with excellent interpersonal skills and possess distinct passion for maternity service and a drive for ongoing learning and development.
You will need to have excellent clinical skills to support the team to deliver high quality care and open to embracing positive change and transformation in order to meet the needs of the women in the local population.
The post holder is responsible for the support and co-ordination of the ward, the day-to-day staffing, co-ordination and management of pharmacy issues, audit and infection prevention, as well as feeding in and gaining experience from the Ward Managers and assisting with daily clinical tasks.
Main duties of the job
To raise awareness and facilitate ownership of midwifery practice development by providing a quality and efficient service to patients and their relatives during their stay by using clinical experience and enhanced skills.
To play a key role in developing the midwifery strategy and be responsible for facilitating evidence-based practice. To deputise for the Band 7 Ward Manager as necessary and take responsibility for the management of the unit and its staff and contribute to the day-to-day running of the department. The Midwife also participates in the supervision and teaching of staff as well as being a Mentor/Assessor for midwifery students.
The role requires credible midwifery experience in antenatal, intrapartum, and postnatal care; high influencing and change management skills and an ability to operationally manage and develop others.
To provide effective input into the work of the Trust, to support the achievement of our vision and values.
About us
Northampton General Hospital is one of the largest employers in the area and we are on an exciting journey. All of our divisions are committed to doing things better, with more efficiency as we update, modernise, and advance. We have also entered into a Group Model with neighbouring Kettering General Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and become University Hospitals of Northamptonshire.
Our Excellence Values
Compassion
Accountability
Respect
Integrity
Courage
We want to recruit the best people to deliver our services across the University Hospitals of Northamptonshire and help to unleash everyone's full potential. As an organisation, we value how we communicate and promote our vacancies to all communities.
We are a Defence positive trust, supporting our reservists, veterans, spouses and partners.
The Hospital Group encourages applications from people who identify from all protected groups, especially those from BAME, Disabled and LGBTQ+ backgrounds as these are underrepresented in our hospitals.
We understand that we need to work with colleagues from diverse backgrounds and make sure the environment they work in is inclusive and collaborative.
We have active Networks that promote and support colleagues from all backgrounds.This ensures everyone feels supported and has a sense of belonging working for Kettering and Northampton General Hospitals.
Job description
Job responsibilities
Professional Responsibilities Promote collaborative working partnerships and effective communication between all members of the multi-disciplinary team Ensure professional and clinical standards are maintained and developed in response to new evidence Be responsible for own development, maintaining a professional portfolio and keeping updated on current midwifery issues Act as a supportive professional role model for midwifery, providing midwifery care in accordance with the NMC Midwives rules and codes of practice
Key Responsibilities Assist the Ward Manager in monitoring and appraising the performance of staff within their sphere of responsibility. Be aware of the budgetary requirements within their clinical areas of midwifery. Will participate in regular staff and directorate meetings. Be a leader, achieve good morale, with open communication between all disciplines of staff. Assist the Ward Manager to create and maintain positive working relationships within the multi-disciplinary team. Act as a change agent to promote innovation and high standards of practice. Help to develop methods at ward level to monitor standards of care in liaison with the Ward Manager. To promote and maintain good working relationships within the ward environment and establish effective communication with all members of the multi-disciplinary patient care team and with other wards/departments within the hospital during the patients journey. To support the monitoring of effective and efficient use of resources and equipment. Have an awareness of the implementation of financial budget and to support the cost improvement plan To ensure that all documentation is completed to the required standard in accordance with Trust policies and current care concepts. To participate in and support the Ward Sister in the recruitment and selection of staff and the implementation of a local induction programme. To participate and support the Ward Sister with HR policies, sickness and absence and performance management. Liaise daily with the operational manager to support smooth flow of patients being admitted to and discharged out of the ward To take responsibility for the day-to-day management of the Department, deploying and supervising staff, ensuring equipment is cared for and maintaining adequate stock levels of disposable equipment and drugs to deliver service requirements. To take operational responsibility of the department in the absence of the Ward Sister when delegated to do so. To act in accordance with NGH NHS Trust Policy detailing ordering, storage, preparation, and administration of medicines, ensuring a high degree of accuracy. Under duty of care handles patients belongings and cash. To comply with all Health and Safety regulations, particularly COSHH, and report, act upon any accidents, incidents, or hazards in accordance with agreed protocols. To support and manage the escalation plan in conjunction with of the Unit Manager and to undertake in their absence
Clinical Responsibilities To act predominantly as shift co-ordinator / clinical manager Monday-Friday supporting staff and coordinating ward activities, providing daily visible leadership Additional management activities to be worked around this and coordinated with Ward manager protected time for office-based management. To act as a role model in Maternity Observation Ward within the wider shared governance framework throughout the Trust implementing changes and developing midwifery practice as appropriate. Provide clinical midwifery expertise and supervision for all grades of staff within the ward, to ensure a high standard of care. Supervise the assessing, planning, implementation, and evaluation of patient care, thus providing high standards of patient care at all times. Ensure that the care given reflects the hospital and departmental philosophies, standards, and protocols. Act as an effective role model and resource/advisor to colleagues, in the delivery of midwifery care. Assist the Ward Manager in facilitating the teaching, mentoring and assessment of staff and other disciplines. Ensure that midwifery practice reflects current clinical developments and is based on sound evidence. Promote a healthy, positive, and safe environment for patients and staff. Advise patients, relatives, and friends as appropriate on the promotion of health and prevention of illness. Meet clinical objectives as agreed separately with the Ward Manager/Maternity Matron To provide clinical expertise and knowledge and disseminate such midwifery knowledge to the wider healthcare team on the ward. To be responsible for the on-going evaluation of the effectiveness of patient care and to ensure that patient records are maintained to the highest possible standard. To initiate and develop new ideas and methods of midwifery care in conjunction with senior staff in the multi-disciplinary team. To be responsible for the assessment of care, including health promotion, required by patients in conjunction with other midwifery and specialist staff and with the co-operation of the patient and their relatives/carers, using effective communication skills. To develop planned programmes of care required, ensuring physical, social, psychological, and spiritual needs are met, including communicating sensitive information within the multi-disciplinary team. To effectively support the mentorship structure within the department, acting as a mentor for student midwives as required. To always act in accordance with the NMC Codes of Conduct and Practice.
Clinical Governance Be accountable for ensuring that Clinical Governance standards are upheld in the antenatal services pathways, working with the Clinical Quality and Safety Midwife; the Clinical Effectiveness Midwife, Audit Lead, and the Practice Development team to respond to information and advice provided and to ensure that patient safety and quality standards are maintained. Within area of responsibility, ensure that all risks (clinical and non-clinical) are identified, assessed, and reported on the Directorate risk register and take appropriate action, with the senior management team as appropriate, to mitigate risks highlighted. Ensure that all clinical incidents within Maternity Observation Ward are analysed and that an appropriate level of investigation is initiated.
Service Development Implementation Assess and teach others in the clinical setting Participate in Preceptorship and Mentorship within the clinical settings Attend updates and refresher study session and mandatory study days Help to facilitate a learning environment that is conducive to the acquisition of further skills and knowledge for all grades of staff. Identify training needs for team members and help in the completion of training needs analysis for the unit to ensure all staff have the opportunity for personal and professional development. Act as role model to colleagues in the demonstration of high standards of practice by working with staff in the clinical setting. Be actively involved in the teaching of all staff at ward and Directorate level and contribute to the development and implementation of the units training and development strategy Will participate in the assessment of student midwives and maternity support workers (MSW). In conjunction with the Ward Sister develop a suitable learning environment, including ensuring relevant educational material is available on the ward and shared with others. To actively participate in the theoretical and practical teaching of care to junior staff and student midwifes. To attend an annual appraisal with the Line Manager and identify and utilise a Personal Development Plan. To participate in staff appraisals, identifying individuals learning needs through the knowledge and skills framework. To co-ordinate the development of training needs as defined within individuals PDPs
Information Resources Input information and have a working knowledge of the hospital information systems Attend training and updates on implementation of Maternity Information System
Research and Development Responsibilities Participate or lead in multi-disciplinary developments, projects, and audits within the ward/ department, involving research, audit, and quality and risk management Demonstrate clinical competence and fitness for purpose Involvement in clinical audit and evaluation of practice within the clinical area Promote and disseminate research and audit findings Contribute ideas and undertake monitoring with regards to quality of women-centred care
Personal skills Maintain personal professional profile including evidence of professional development within midwifery, and any other extended role. Identify and negotiate training needs, actively address these through the Trust appraisal system Maintain an awareness of issues relating to midwifery on the national agenda Keeps up to date with current issues relating to obstetric ultrasound for example liaising with Perinatal Institute and other related professional bodies to ensure current practice is evidence based. Ensures the frequency of own practice affords maintenance of skill levels Able to organise and manage the unpredictable nature of referrals, co-ordinating them into a workable day alongside midwifery duties, adhering to time schedules whilst maintaining the quality of the service. Communicate effectively both verbally and in writing Co-ordinate the responsibilities, capabilities, and workload of team members
Job description
Job responsibilities
Professional Responsibilities Promote collaborative working partnerships and effective communication between all members of the multi-disciplinary team Ensure professional and clinical standards are maintained and developed in response to new evidence Be responsible for own development, maintaining a professional portfolio and keeping updated on current midwifery issues Act as a supportive professional role model for midwifery, providing midwifery care in accordance with the NMC Midwives rules and codes of practice
Key Responsibilities Assist the Ward Manager in monitoring and appraising the performance of staff within their sphere of responsibility. Be aware of the budgetary requirements within their clinical areas of midwifery. Will participate in regular staff and directorate meetings. Be a leader, achieve good morale, with open communication between all disciplines of staff. Assist the Ward Manager to create and maintain positive working relationships within the multi-disciplinary team. Act as a change agent to promote innovation and high standards of practice. Help to develop methods at ward level to monitor standards of care in liaison with the Ward Manager. To promote and maintain good working relationships within the ward environment and establish effective communication with all members of the multi-disciplinary patient care team and with other wards/departments within the hospital during the patients journey. To support the monitoring of effective and efficient use of resources and equipment. Have an awareness of the implementation of financial budget and to support the cost improvement plan To ensure that all documentation is completed to the required standard in accordance with Trust policies and current care concepts. To participate in and support the Ward Sister in the recruitment and selection of staff and the implementation of a local induction programme. To participate and support the Ward Sister with HR policies, sickness and absence and performance management. Liaise daily with the operational manager to support smooth flow of patients being admitted to and discharged out of the ward To take responsibility for the day-to-day management of the Department, deploying and supervising staff, ensuring equipment is cared for and maintaining adequate stock levels of disposable equipment and drugs to deliver service requirements. To take operational responsibility of the department in the absence of the Ward Sister when delegated to do so. To act in accordance with NGH NHS Trust Policy detailing ordering, storage, preparation, and administration of medicines, ensuring a high degree of accuracy. Under duty of care handles patients belongings and cash. To comply with all Health and Safety regulations, particularly COSHH, and report, act upon any accidents, incidents, or hazards in accordance with agreed protocols. To support and manage the escalation plan in conjunction with of the Unit Manager and to undertake in their absence
Clinical Responsibilities To act predominantly as shift co-ordinator / clinical manager Monday-Friday supporting staff and coordinating ward activities, providing daily visible leadership Additional management activities to be worked around this and coordinated with Ward manager protected time for office-based management. To act as a role model in Maternity Observation Ward within the wider shared governance framework throughout the Trust implementing changes and developing midwifery practice as appropriate. Provide clinical midwifery expertise and supervision for all grades of staff within the ward, to ensure a high standard of care. Supervise the assessing, planning, implementation, and evaluation of patient care, thus providing high standards of patient care at all times. Ensure that the care given reflects the hospital and departmental philosophies, standards, and protocols. Act as an effective role model and resource/advisor to colleagues, in the delivery of midwifery care. Assist the Ward Manager in facilitating the teaching, mentoring and assessment of staff and other disciplines. Ensure that midwifery practice reflects current clinical developments and is based on sound evidence. Promote a healthy, positive, and safe environment for patients and staff. Advise patients, relatives, and friends as appropriate on the promotion of health and prevention of illness. Meet clinical objectives as agreed separately with the Ward Manager/Maternity Matron To provide clinical expertise and knowledge and disseminate such midwifery knowledge to the wider healthcare team on the ward. To be responsible for the on-going evaluation of the effectiveness of patient care and to ensure that patient records are maintained to the highest possible standard. To initiate and develop new ideas and methods of midwifery care in conjunction with senior staff in the multi-disciplinary team. To be responsible for the assessment of care, including health promotion, required by patients in conjunction with other midwifery and specialist staff and with the co-operation of the patient and their relatives/carers, using effective communication skills. To develop planned programmes of care required, ensuring physical, social, psychological, and spiritual needs are met, including communicating sensitive information within the multi-disciplinary team. To effectively support the mentorship structure within the department, acting as a mentor for student midwives as required. To always act in accordance with the NMC Codes of Conduct and Practice.
Clinical Governance Be accountable for ensuring that Clinical Governance standards are upheld in the antenatal services pathways, working with the Clinical Quality and Safety Midwife; the Clinical Effectiveness Midwife, Audit Lead, and the Practice Development team to respond to information and advice provided and to ensure that patient safety and quality standards are maintained. Within area of responsibility, ensure that all risks (clinical and non-clinical) are identified, assessed, and reported on the Directorate risk register and take appropriate action, with the senior management team as appropriate, to mitigate risks highlighted. Ensure that all clinical incidents within Maternity Observation Ward are analysed and that an appropriate level of investigation is initiated.
Service Development Implementation Assess and teach others in the clinical setting Participate in Preceptorship and Mentorship within the clinical settings Attend updates and refresher study session and mandatory study days Help to facilitate a learning environment that is conducive to the acquisition of further skills and knowledge for all grades of staff. Identify training needs for team members and help in the completion of training needs analysis for the unit to ensure all staff have the opportunity for personal and professional development. Act as role model to colleagues in the demonstration of high standards of practice by working with staff in the clinical setting. Be actively involved in the teaching of all staff at ward and Directorate level and contribute to the development and implementation of the units training and development strategy Will participate in the assessment of student midwives and maternity support workers (MSW). In conjunction with the Ward Sister develop a suitable learning environment, including ensuring relevant educational material is available on the ward and shared with others. To actively participate in the theoretical and practical teaching of care to junior staff and student midwifes. To attend an annual appraisal with the Line Manager and identify and utilise a Personal Development Plan. To participate in staff appraisals, identifying individuals learning needs through the knowledge and skills framework. To co-ordinate the development of training needs as defined within individuals PDPs
Information Resources Input information and have a working knowledge of the hospital information systems Attend training and updates on implementation of Maternity Information System
Research and Development Responsibilities Participate or lead in multi-disciplinary developments, projects, and audits within the ward/ department, involving research, audit, and quality and risk management Demonstrate clinical competence and fitness for purpose Involvement in clinical audit and evaluation of practice within the clinical area Promote and disseminate research and audit findings Contribute ideas and undertake monitoring with regards to quality of women-centred care
Personal skills Maintain personal professional profile including evidence of professional development within midwifery, and any other extended role. Identify and negotiate training needs, actively address these through the Trust appraisal system Maintain an awareness of issues relating to midwifery on the national agenda Keeps up to date with current issues relating to obstetric ultrasound for example liaising with Perinatal Institute and other related professional bodies to ensure current practice is evidence based. Ensures the frequency of own practice affords maintenance of skill levels Able to organise and manage the unpredictable nature of referrals, co-ordinating them into a workable day alongside midwifery duties, adhering to time schedules whilst maintaining the quality of the service. Communicate effectively both verbally and in writing Co-ordinate the responsibilities, capabilities, and workload of team members
Person Specification
Education, Training and Qualifications
Essential
- Registered Midwife
- Clinical expertise in midwifery practice, supported by education and professional development
- Extensive experience of working autonomously at an advanced level within maternity care
- Previous experience of working with students
- Previous experience as a practise supervisor for students
Desirable
- Experience of involvement in developing and reviewing guidelines/protocols and care pathways
- Evidence of further education in audit/research
- Experience of change management
- Experience of co-ordination of a multi-disciplinary team
Skills
Essential
- Excellent interpersonal skills and proven ability to work across professional health care boundaries
- Ability to counsel patients in an emergency environment
- Presentation skills
- Ability to motivate self and others
- Computer literate in Word/Excel and hospital-based programmes/applications
Knowledge and Experience
Essential
- Up to date knowledge of maternity policy and strategy
- Experience in working in Postnatal / Antenatal wards
Person Specification
Education, Training and Qualifications
Essential
- Registered Midwife
- Clinical expertise in midwifery practice, supported by education and professional development
- Extensive experience of working autonomously at an advanced level within maternity care
- Previous experience of working with students
- Previous experience as a practise supervisor for students
Desirable
- Experience of involvement in developing and reviewing guidelines/protocols and care pathways
- Evidence of further education in audit/research
- Experience of change management
- Experience of co-ordination of a multi-disciplinary team
Skills
Essential
- Excellent interpersonal skills and proven ability to work across professional health care boundaries
- Ability to counsel patients in an emergency environment
- Presentation skills
- Ability to motivate self and others
- Computer literate in Word/Excel and hospital-based programmes/applications
Knowledge and Experience
Essential
- Up to date knowledge of maternity policy and strategy
- Experience in working in Postnatal / Antenatal wards
Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
Applications from job seekers who require current Skilled worker sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications. For further information visit the UK Visas and Immigration website (Opens in a new tab).
From 6 April 2017, skilled worker applicants, applying for entry clearance into the UK, have had to present a criminal record certificate from each country they have resided continuously or cumulatively for 12 months or more in the past 10 years. Adult dependants (over 18 years old) are also subject to this requirement. Guidance can be found here Criminal records checks for overseas applicants (Opens in a new tab).
UK Registration
Applicants must have current UK professional registration. For further information please see
NHS Careers website (opens in a new window).
Additional information
Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
Applications from job seekers who require current Skilled worker sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications. For further information visit the UK Visas and Immigration website (Opens in a new tab).
From 6 April 2017, skilled worker applicants, applying for entry clearance into the UK, have had to present a criminal record certificate from each country they have resided continuously or cumulatively for 12 months or more in the past 10 years. Adult dependants (over 18 years old) are also subject to this requirement. Guidance can be found here Criminal records checks for overseas applicants (Opens in a new tab).
UK Registration
Applicants must have current UK professional registration. For further information please see
NHS Careers website (opens in a new window).
