About this role
Job summary
If you love creating content that informs, inspires and makes a real difference, and you thrive in a fast-paced environment where no two days are the same, this could be the perfect opportunity for you.
We are seeking an enthusiastic and motivated Communications Officer (Band 6) to join the Corporate Communications Team at East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust. Based in Eastbourne with flexibility to work across multiple sites, you will help shape how we communicate with colleagues, patients, stakeholders, partners and local communities.
As a senior member of a busy and creative team, you will deliver high-quality communications across a range of channels, including internal communications, media relations, digital platforms, campaigns and publications.
You will have excellent writing and editorial skills, with the ability to adapt messages for different audiences. You will understand how effective communications support service transformation, patient safety, quality improvement, staff engagement and organisational reputation. Experience in a dynamic communications environment, strong relationship-building skills and confidence in handling media enquiries are essential.
We are looking for someone who is creative, organised and passionate about storytelling, with a keen eye for detail and the ability to deliver high-quality work at pace.
In return, you will join a supportive and forward-thinking team that values collaboration, innovation and continuous improvement.
Main duties of the job
As a senior member of the communications team, the post holder will provide expert communications support across the Trust, drawing on experience gained in a fast-paced communications environment.
You will develop and deliver communications strategies and campaigns that support Trust priorities, including service transformation, patient safety, quality improvement and staff engagement. You will provide communications advice to senior leaders, clinical services and corporate teams, helping to ensure clear, effective and consistent messaging.
The role includes managing proactive and reactive media relations, responding to enquiries, preparing statements and supporting communications during incidents and organisational challenges. You will build and maintain positive relationships with media and key stakeholders.
You will lead the delivery of engaging internal communications through a range of channels, promoting staff wellbeing, engagement and organisational pride. Responsibility for digital communications includes managing social media content and supporting website development to improve accessibility, reach and user experience.
Working closely with NHS partners, local organisations and community stakeholders, you will support public engagement and involvement activities. The post holder will also deputise for the Head of Communications when required and contribute to the leadership and continued development of the communications function.
About us
A wide range of staff benefits are available to our staff including staff development, enrolment in the NHS pension scheme, auto-enrolment to our Temporary Workforce Service, access to onsite nurseries. staff restaurants and accommodation.
In addition to an internal Occupational Health department, all staff also have access to free psychological support through our confidential Employee Assistance Programme. Onsite parking is available from only £50 a year.
There has never been a better time to join East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust, submit your application today.
Statement on the Use of AI
We value the individuality that each candidate brings to the application process. While we understand that AI tools are widely available, we strongly discourage applicants from using AI-generated content when applying for jobs with us. We believe that your application should reflect your true skills, experiences, and motivations, which are best conveyed through your own words and unique perspective.
Using AI for your application may not accurately represent your knowledge, skills, and experience and may result in a disconnect between your qualifications and our assessment of your application.
We encourage applicants to take the time to thoughtfully complete their applications; by doing so, you allow us to better understand your true potential and ensure a fair and transparent evaluation of your application. Over reliance on AI-generated content may diminish your chance of success.
Job description Job responsibilities
Please refer to the job description attached.
If you have any questions about this position please do not hesitate to contact us.
Person Specification
Qualifications Essential
Good general education including English and Maths Evidence of continued professional development to Degree Level plus training / experience to postgraduate diploma level in relevant subject
Experience Essential
Relevant evidence of communications knowledge and experience A good understanding of communications and engagement Experience of video recording, editing and publication Experience supporting and training other in video recording Experience of content creation across a range of media
Desirable
Previous experience of working in an NHS communications team Experience of supporting engagement with internal stakeholder groups
Skills Essential
Advanced computer skills Demonstrates excellent communication and highly developed interpersonal skill Able to deal with highly pressurised and potentially controversial situations Capable of applying sustained concentration and focus on priorities and outcomes within a diverse workload Demonstrates evidence of developing and sustaining innovative practice and is a proactive supportive change agent Understanding and application of National and local strategies, legislation, mandatory and accreditation requirements e.g. CQC and their impact on the quality of patient care Knowledge and understanding of equalities legislation and guidelines and interest in embedding equality and diversity into how the organisation functions Good understanding and overview of NHS structures and organisations Ability to develop and present reports to a high standard without assistance and to short timescales
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.
Certificate of Sponsorship 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).
Employer details Employer name East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust
Address Eastbourne District General Hospital
Kings Drive
Eastbourne
BN21 2UD
United Kingdom
Employer's website http://jobs.esht.nhs.uk/ (Opens in a new tab)