Nursing Assistant NHS AfC: Band 2

Supportive Bridge Staffing & Recruitment is pleased to assist our valued client in recruiting a motivated Nursing Assistant (Band 2) to join their Cataract Centre in Manchester, UK. Based at Withington Community Hospital—a bespoke department of the prestigious Manchester Royal Eye Hospital and an accredited NHSE GIRFT elective surgical hub within Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust—this permanent position offers an ideal start for healthcare support professionals in ophthalmology.

In this full-time role working 37.5 hours per week (structured across 4 days a week), you will work closely with a multidisciplinary team of nurses, doctors, consultants, and optometrists across pre- and post-operative clinics, day-case areas, and dedicated cataract operating theatres. You will deliver compassionate care, assist with patient preparation and recovery, conduct routine clinical observations, instill prescribed eye drops, and serve as a circulating practitioner during surgical procedures.

Role Description

As a Band 2 Nursing Assistant in Ophthalmology, you will perform baseline clinical assessments, support pre-op and post-op care, act as a circulating practitioner in the cataract theatre, and assist with general patient wellbeing.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform clinical baseline observations (pulse, blood pressure, temperature, respirations) and specialized measurements including visual acuity and eye pressure.

• Administer prescribed eye drops and support pre-operative assessment and post-operative recovery within day-case clinics.

• Act as a circulating practitioner in the cataract operating theatre, assisting the surgical team and maintaining accurate documentation.

Requirements

• Functional Skills Level 1 in English and Maths or equivalent GCSEs.

• National Care Certificate (or willingness to complete it within 12 weeks of starting) and willingness to undertake a Level 2 Healthcare Apprenticeship.

• Prior experience working within a healthcare or social care environment is required (healthcare setting experience preferred).

Benefits

• Calculated hourly rate of £12.92 to £14.05 per hour (based on £25,272 - £27,476 per annum across a standard 37.5-hour work week).

• Full NHS Agenda for Change benefits package including pension scheme, annual leave entitlement, and structured training programs.

• Career growth opportunities within Europe's largest health academic campus in Manchester, UK.