About this role
Job summary
Role Purpose
To provide safe, reliable, and routine support to patients and the clinical team by carrying out a range of delegated duties under close supervision. As an entry-level role, tasks are performed following clear instructions, defined procedures, and basic training. The Healthcare Assistant contributes to high-quality care through accurate record keeping, assisting with day-to-day activities, and supporting a safe, compassionate care environment.
Main duties of the job
Patient Support & Everyday Care
Clinical & Care Task Assistance
Record Keeping & Information Management
Communication & Guidance Provision
Routine Operational Support
Learning, Development & Team Contribution
About us
PML is a successful not-for-profit, GP-led organisation providing various NHS community and primary care clinical services to patients across Oxfordshire and Northamptonshire. We have evolved as a NHS healthcare provider since 2004 and in the last few years have grown significantly, now employing around 300 staff with a turnover of circa £16m. PML holds GMS contracts, as well as being a GP Federation representing circa 50 GP practices covering approximately 650,000 patients.
We welcome applicants from a diverse range of backgrounds and circumstances and people with protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010
Job description Job responsibilities
Role Purpose
To provide safe, reliable, and routine support to patients and the clinical team by carrying out a range of delegated duties under close supervision. As an entry-level role, tasks are performed following clear instructions, defined procedures, and basic training. The Healthcare Assistant contributes to high-quality care through accurate record keeping, assisting with day-to-day activities, and supporting a safe, compassionate care environment.
Role AccountabilitiesPatient Support & Everyday Care Assist patients with routine daily living activities as directed, ensuring dignity, privacy, and respect. Support patient comfort and safety by helping with mobility, hydration, nutrition, and general wellbeing. Observe and report any changes in patient condition to supervising staff promptly.
Clinical & Care Task Assistance Carry out basic, low-risk care tasks following training and clear instructions (e.g., taking observations, assisting with personal care, preparing areas for procedures). Use appropriate equipment safely after instruction, escalating concerns or unfamiliar situations. Support clinical staff during routine activities by preparing materials, maintaining cleanliness, and ensuring supplies are available.
Record Keeping & Information Management Accurately record patient information, observations, and care activities as instructed. Support data collection tasks, ensuring information is complete, legible, and stored following confidentiality and data protection requirements. Maintain up-to-date documentation within the care area, escalating any discrepancies to supervising staff.
Communication & Guidance Provision Provide clear, polite, and reassuring communication to patients, families, and colleagues. Share routine information or guidance with patients based on instructions from clinical staff. Seek advice when unsure and ask for clarification to ensure safe and effective care delivery.
Routine Operational Support Perform general support tasks such as restocking supplies, maintaining cleanliness of equipment and areas, and preparing spaces for patient care. Follow infection prevention and control procedures carefully to maintain a safe care environment. Contribute to smooth team operations by completing allocated tasks reliably and reporting issues promptly.
Learning, Development & Team Contribution Participate in basic training required for the role and apply learning to daily tasks. Work closely with senior staff, following guidance, feedback, and supervision. Demonstrate a positive, helpful attitude, contributing to a supportive and patient-focused team environment. Show willingness to expand skills and grow confidence within the boundaries of the role.
Person Specification
Behaviours and Attributes Essential
Caring, compassionate, and respectful manner Reliable, punctual, and willing to learn Positive attitude and commitment to supporting patient wellbeing Able to work calmly and sensitively in a patient-facing environment Team-focused and supportive of colleagues Willingness to undertake ongoing training and development Flexibility to support service needs within the role boundaries Commitment to maintaining a safe and supportive care environment
Qualifications Essential
Good general standard of education such as GCSEs or equivalent
Skills and knowledge Essential
Ability to follow clear instructions, procedures, and guidelines Ability to carry out routine tasks reliably and safely after training Good communication skills, both spoken and written Ability to record information accurately and clearly Ability to work under close supervision and seek help when unsure Basic organisational skills and ability to manage simple tasks Ability to show care, empathy, and patience when supporting others Awareness of the importance of confidentiality and data protection Understanding of basic hygiene, cleanliness, and infection control principles (training provided) Awareness of the role of a Healthcare Assistant within a care environment
Desirable
Experience in any caring, customer facing, or service role Experience working as part of a team
Experience Essential
Ability to carry out basic patient support tasks under the direction of a registered professional. Experience of working as part of a team (healthcare or non-healthcare setting)
Desirable
Previous experience in a healthcare, care or support role.
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.
Employer details Employer name Principal Medical Limited
Address The Fiennes Centre
Hightown Road
BANBURY
Oxfordshire
OX16 9BF
United Kingdom
Employer's website https://www.principal-medical.co.uk (Opens in a new tab)