About this role
Job summary
The Neurogastro Unit at the Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust is a national referral centre dedicated to the care of patients with complex disorders of gut-brain interaction, of which IBS is one of the most common conditions. The department has a wide-ranging research program into these disorders.
One component of the integrated multidisciplinary care provided to patients is gut-directed hypnotherapy and the unit has a worldwide reputation for research into hypnosis and provision of this form of brain-gut behavioural treatment.
The successful applicant will be expected to learn and adhere to all the specialised techniques used in the Unit. It is also important that they remain within the treatment boundaries of the department bearing in mind that it is a Gastroenterology Unit and not a psychological or psychiatric department.
We are looking for an enthusiastic and motivated Hypnotherapist to join an existing team of three therapists and be expected to work flexibly in order to meet the needs of patients and keep the waiting list at an acceptable level. They will also be responsible for keeping up to date records on every patient they treat in order to allow audit of their outcomes and those of the department. Meticulous record keeping is essential as treatment outcomes form an important part of the research undertaken by the Unit.
Shortlisted candidates would be expected to demonstrate their skills by hypnotising a volunteer provided on the day of interview.
Main duties of the job
To provide high quality gut-directed hypnosis to patients with disorders of gut brain interaction. Plan and execute a programme of up to 12 sessions tailored to patients' particular needs in order to enable them to become self reliant in symptom control as well as enhancing coping strategies and improving psychological status. Where appropriate, to also facilitate a reduction in medication and healthcare demands at the primary care level.
To facilitate patients understanding of gastrointestinal and somatic symptoms including chronic pain. To also explain the interaction between the biological, social and psychological aspects of illness.
To use hypnosis to control gut function and reduce hyper reactivity, hypersensitivity and hyper vigilance. To address psychological issues where appropriate within the limits of the expertise of the department.
To include cognitive behavioural approaches into the treatment regime.
To attend meetings of the department where cases can be discussed and experiences shared.
To keep excellent records.
To participate in any ongoing research in this area. To communicate with the referring neurogastroenterologist (Dr Vasant or Prof Whorwell) if any patient is causing them any concern with regard progress, safety or the development of new symptoms.
To work as part of a team and communicate effectively.
About us
Join Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust (MFT) and become part of a 30,000 plus strong team, delivering exceptional care to over 1 million people every year. As the largest provider of specialist services, and our Oxford Road Campus in Manchester, the largest health academic campus in Europe, we are forward-thinking, committed to clinical excellence and driven to deliver innovation, and continuous improvement.Whether you're beginning your career or taking the next step, MFT offers a stimulating and supportive environment where your contribution truly matters. Our Hive Electronic Patient Record system enables safer, smarter, and more efficient ways of working - empowering you to deliver the best possible outcomes for our patients.You'll be part of a collaborative, multi-disciplinary community, working alongside professionals from a wide range of clinical backgrounds. Together, we push boundaries, share knowledge, and deliver care that transforms lives.At MFT, you'll find a workplace where everyone is respected, supported, and encouraged to thrive. We offer clear clinical pathways for professional development, helping you grow your skills and achieve your ambitions.Your journey at MFT is more than a job - it's an opportunity to make a lasting impact. We'll support you as you shape the future of healthcare, one patient at a time.
Job description Job responsibilities
To find out more about the key responsibilities and the specific skills and experience youll need, take a look at the Job Description & Person Specification attachments under the Supporting Documents heading. So that youre even more equipped to make an informed decision to apply to us, youll need to take time to read the Candidate Essentials Guidethat sits with the Job Description and Person Specification. This document provides you with details about the Trust, our benefits and outlines how we care for you as you care for others. Most importantly, it also contains critical information youll need to be aware of before you submit an application form.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in your application
Here at Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, were proud to be ALL HERE FOR YOUfor our patients, our communities, and each other.
As part of our commitment to fairness, transparency, and personal integrity, we ask all applicants to ensure that their job applications reflect their own experiences, skills, and motivations. While AI tools can support spelling, grammar, or formatting, we expect that the content of your applicationespecially personal statements and responses to role-specific questionsis written by you. This helps us get to know the real you and ensures that our recruitment process remains equitable and meaningful for everyone.
Thank you for helping us uphold the values that make our Trust a place where people belong, grow, and thrive. We look forward to receiving your application.
Diversity Matters
MFT is committed to promoting equality of opportunity, celebrating and valuing diversity and eliminating any form of unlawful discrimination across our workforce, ensuring our people are truly representative of the communities we serve. All individuals regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation are encouraged to apply for this post.As an inclusive employer, we are here to support you. If you have any special requirements to help you with your application, please contact the manager named below.
Person Specification
Education and qualifications Essential
Degree or equivalent in a Healthcare Specialty such as Nursing, Social Work or Physiotherapy. A degree in another subject may be acceptable. A diploma in hypnotherapy from a reputable organisation.
Skills Essential
Excellent communication skills with ability to relate to people with different backgrounds in order to establish a good rapport Ability to work as an effective team member. Ability to prioritise workload
Knowledge and Experience Essential
Good understanding of the needs of people with illness. Some experience in hypnotherapy
Desirable
Use of hypnosis in medical conditions. Previous experience working in the NHS or another healthcare setting.
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).
UK Registration
Applicants must have current UK professional registration. For further information please see NHS Careers website (opens in a new window).
Employer details Employer name Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust
Address Wythenshawe Hospital
Southmoor Road
Manchester
M23 7WL
United Kingdom
Employer's website https://mft.nhs.uk/careers/ (Opens in a new tab)