Sexual Health HCA- Development Post

Job overview

NHFT provides healthcare and wellbeing services within HMP Peterborough to approximately 300 female and 860 male residents.

We are recruiting a Band 3 Healthcare Assistant (Development Post) to work within our Sexual Health Service at HMP Peterborough.

The successful applicant will support the delivery of a comprehensive range of needs-based care for patients requiring screening, diagnostics, and treatment for sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections. The post holder will work under supervision of registered sexual health nurses and will contribute to safe, effective, and person-centred care.

This is a development post with a clear progression pathway to Band 4. Within 6–12 months, and subject to demonstration of required competencies and service requirements, the post holder is expected to:

• Complete a defined competency framework.
• Develop the skills to manage asymptomatic patients independently.
• Undertake the STIF Gateway course (or equivalent) to support progression.
• Progress to Band 4 Senior Sexual Health HCA, which includes running autonomous clinics and managing asymptomatic patient care, upon successful completion of competencies and service sign-off.

This role requires flexibility, initiative, and a commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of individuals in a secure setting. It offers an excellent opportunity for a motivated and compassionate healthcare assistant to develop advanced clinical skills in a specialist service.

Main duties of the job

Key Responsibilities:

Clinical Duties

• Assist with routine sexual health screening (e.g., urine samples, self-taken swabs, pregnancy testing) under supervision.
• Provide basic information and signposting regarding sexual health, STIs, and BBVs.
• Undertake delegated procedures such as venepuncture (following training and competency).
• Record observations and prepare pathology specimens per protocol.
• Chaperone patients and support registered staff with procedures.
• Prepare and restock clinic rooms in accordance with NHFT Medicines Management Policy.
• Maintain infection prevention and control standards.

Administrative Support

• Book and manage appointments and clinic slots on patient systems (e.g., CMS).
• Support data collection and accurate record keeping.
• Liaise with prison, healthcare, and external services to support continuity of care.

Health Promotion & Patient Engagement

• Contribute to the delivery of health promotion activities.
• Engage sensitively with patients, respecting their cultural, emotional, and individual needs.
• Promote trauma-informed, person-centred care.

Professional Conduct

• Always maintain professional boundaries and confidentiality.
• Adhere to NHFT and HMP Peterborough policies and procedures.
• Access supervision, mentorship, and training as part of the development plan.
• Support the Trust’s commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

Professional Conduct:

• Demonstrate appropriate professional and personal boundaries.
• Maintain confidentiality and ensure safeguarding at all times.
• Adhere to all NHFT and HMP Peterborough policies and procedures.
• Access and engage in clinical supervision.

Support the Trust’s commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion